The image and the reality

The study described in this report throws light on the application of a startling new technological development. The introduction of the whole body scanner adds to the growing list of diagnostic aids but it also involves both high capital and running costs.

As the Chief Scientist of Scotland's Health Department comments, a clear case is revealed for some rigorous oversight of the total arrangements required for the effective and efficient application of new technologies in health care. Complementary to this is the need to assess the total implications of these expensive innovations in terms of health service logistics.