ContrastConnect has released a guide on scaling imaging centers efficiently. The guide takes into account new federal guidelines, such as the permanent allowance of remote coverage models, and how they can help facilities grow.
-- ContrastConnect has released a guide examining how imaging centers can scale operations under Medicare's CY 2026 Physician Fee Schedule rule, which permanently allows virtual direct supervision for certain diagnostic tests through real-time, two-way audio and video technology. The change, effective January 1, 2026, gives eligible imaging facilities another option for addressing physician coverage constraints as they evaluate capacity, operating hours, and expansion plans.
Under the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) rule, a supervising physician or other supervising practitioner may satisfy the direct-supervision presence and immediate-availability requirements remotely through real-time, interactive audio and video technology for applicable diagnostic tests. Audio-only communication does not qualify, and the policy excludes services with global surgery indicators 010 or 090. In a November 2025 analysis, Reed Smith LLP said the permanent virtual-supervision policy could expand access to Level 2 diagnostic services in settings facing provider shortages or geographic barriers. The firm noted that the rule allows supervising physicians or non-physician practitioners to remain immediately available remotely throughout applicable tests, including certain contrast-enhanced diagnostic procedures. ContrastConnect's guide examines how imaging centers can incorporate remote supervision into capacity planning. For facilities constrained by physician availability rather than equipment or physical space, hybrid coverage models may provide another way to evaluate extended operating hours or additional locations while maintaining required on-site technologist operations and remote physician supervision.
“Permanent virtual direct supervision changes the way imaging centers can approach capacity planning,” says Dr. Dor Shoshan, Founder and CEO of ContrastConnect. “Facilities can now evaluate physician coverage alongside equipment, staffing, scheduling, and location when determining how to increase access to diagnostic services. The opportunity is significant, but the operational model still needs to account for Medicare requirements, state rules, and the practical demands of each facility.” ContrastConnect's guide also addresses the operational requirements that accompany expansion, including standardized workflows, compliance documentation, scheduling processes, and state-specific regulations. While Medicare permits virtual direct supervision under defined conditions, state requirements governing contrast administration and other aspects of imaging services may be more restrictive. The resource is intended to help imaging administrators assess potential capacity strategies as hybrid physician-coverage models become a permanent option under Medicare policy. About ContrastConnect ContrastConnect collaborates with imaging groups facing radiologist availability and scheduling bottlenecks, providing access to a pool of licensed radiologists and HIPAA- and HITECH-compliant platforms for remote coverage. The company reports supervising approximately one million contrast-enhanced procedures annually and says it has covered 100% of requested hours. More information is available at https://www.contrast-connect.com/blog-post/how-to-scale-an-imaging-center-adding-capacity-without-adding-on-site-physicians
Contact Info:
Name: Dor Shoshan
Email: Send Email
Organization: ContrastConnect
Address: Las vegas, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States
Website: https://www.contrast-connect.com/
Source: PressCable
Release ID: 89204916
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