A study conducted by researchers at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center showed that using a cardiac MRI in the ED's observation unit enabled providers to manage most patients without admitting them, resulting in lower cost at the hospital of about $588 per patient. It also allowed diagnosis and prevention of all cardiac events that might have occurred within 30 days of the visit. Cardiac MRI can reveal edema, allow a view of wall motion, allow profusion testing at rest and during stress, and offer delayed enhancement looks at areas of cardiac scarring or recent infarction. Placing moderate and high-risk patients in the observation unit frees up beds in the ED. Cardiac MRI allows the opportunity to bill for observation care, which is higher in terms of professional fees.

Cardiac MRI in the ED's observation unit allows providers to manage most patients without admitting them, resulting in lower hospital costs and allowing diagnosis and prevention of cardiac events within 30 days of the visit.

Cardiac MRI in obs lowers admissions.

Key Takeaway: Cardiac MRI in the ED's observation unit allows providers to manage most patients without admitting them, resulting in lower hospital costs and allowing diagnosis and prevention of cardiac events within 30 days of the visit.