KLAS: Tomosynthesis, breast ultrasound key for providers choosing vendors

When it comes to choosing a vendor partner for breast imaging, healthcare providers increasingly look at tomosynthesis and breast ultrasound as they focus on detecting more cancers while reducing false positives, according to a new report from Orem, Utah-based research firm KLAS.

For the report, "Breast Imaging 2014: Finding a Partner for the Future," KLAS interviewed 183 providers about the vendors they would choose if they were making buying decisions now.

"There were a few recurring themes we heard from providers during our research: partnerships, tomosynthesis and breast ultrasound," report author Monique Rasband said in an announcement. "Providers who have adopted tomosynthesis reported overwhelmingly positive feedback, and those who have not are looking forward to FDA approval for other vendors in the future. Additionally, more providers are looking at automated whole breast ultrasound, and breast applications for general ultrasound are getting stronger."

According to the report, Hologic appears to be the No. 1 choice for a digital mammography partner among providers, even for those who are customers of other vendors. For example, of the current GE customers surveyed, 63 percent cited Hologic as their top choice. Hologic customers, on the other hand, were extremely loyal to that vendor, with 100 percent saying that Hologic remains their top choice.

Hologic's reputation has been boosted by its role as a tomosynthesis technology leader, KLAS suggests. A report published last year from KLAS on tomosynthesis found that providers who are offering tomosynthesis are almost unanimously satisfied with the technology. Of 44 providers interviewed, 43 said they would invest in tomosynthesis again, despite its expense and uncertainties about reimbursement.

To learn more:
- see the announcement from KLAS
- read about the report on tomosynthesis