Radiologists under 'ethical' microscope

May 05 2000

As unethical pathology practices come under the spotlight, radiologists might also be exposed for unethical involvement in kickbacks.

The Radiology Society of South Africa has conducted investigations and expects to hand over a report soon.

The investigations culminated in a raid on a Johannesburg radiology practice in March, and the society vowed to get tough with radiologists involved in unethical behaviour.

Radiology Society president Richard Tuft said: "The society is actively following up other complaints, which will be forwarded to the Health Professions Council once our investigations have been completed."

In radiology, unethical incentives have allegedly been offered to doctors by a limited number of radiology practices, particularly for expensive scanning procedures.

"The more blatant abuse is via cash or cheques paid to referring doctors as a percentage of the value of the work referred," Tuft said.

The Health Professions Council has enlisted the help of forensic auditors in investigating a Johannesburg radiology practice suspected of giving kickbacks.

If the radiologists and referring doctors are found guilty of either giving or receiving kickbacks, they will face disciplinary action.

Acknowledgement to