Equilibrium of medical and radiology services in Manitoba

Diagnostic imaging policy for the one million people of Manitoba was reviewed. Four complete data collections of diagnostic imaging activity, physician claims, vital statistics, and disease incidence from existing registries were assembled. Mammography, Hodgkin disease, and regional enteritis were analyzed briefly. Studies of protocols for patient access to computed tomography, imaging in head injury, and actions by society indicated that new technology and procedures can be accommodated at manageable public expense. To overcome emerging problems, several initiatives have been considered, including a proposed Canadian Health Council to moderate policy, a personal health identification number to link information, and imaging investigation directed by radiologists.