Since the FDA approval for the first Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT) system in 2011, this technology continues to prove its value and comprises a large portion of the mammography market. Currently there is no dedicated reimbursement code for 3D tomosynthesis. However, this will soon change as the American Medical Association (AMA) CPT Editorial Panel has approved 3 new Category I CPT codes for breast tomosynthesis that will be effective beginning January 1, 2015.
As the details and rates for reimbursement have yet to be released, reimbursement continues to play a role in a facility’s decision to invest in a digital mammography system, which makes obtaining the best price possible even more important.
In general, pricing for a digital mammography system depends heavily upon the desired functionality and configuration. Facilities may choose to include computer-aided detection (CAD), contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM), review workstations, tomosynthesis, and upright biopsy components with their mammography system purchase. These options will influence the cost of the equipment.
The lower end of the pricing seen below reflects basic digital mammography solutions, while the higher end reflects more fully configured systems.
Most facilities opt for a full-service contract on their mammography equipment. Due to the high cost of the digital detector on mammography units (in excess of $100,000 out of warranty), detector coverage is almost always included in a service contract. For facilities with a strong Bio-Med department, BME First Call screening can provide savings of around 7 to 10 percent.
Pricing for Full-Field Digital Mammography:
Low High Average Price
$175,000 $435,000 $273,940
System Service Support Prices
Low High Average Price
$29,500 $59,575 $43,290
Pricing for Digital Breast Tomosynthesis:
Low High Average Price
$399,400 $551,900 $462,010
System Service Support Prices
Low High Average Price
$42,000 $78,910 $53,990
Data source: MD Buyline (Please note these numbers have been adjusted to exclude special deals, outliers and unique circumstances).