The New CMS Measure of Excessive Radiation Dose or Inadequate Image Quality in CT: Issues and Ambiguities-Perspectives from an AAPM-Commissioned Panel.

CMS has adopted a new CT quality measure seeking to discourage excessive radiation dose while preserving image quality. The measure score is expressed as the percentage of qualifying studies that exceed predetermined thresholds indicating inadequate image quality (based on image noise) or excessive radiation dose. The measure has been incorporated into the major CMS quality-based payment programs, impacting hospitals and clinician payments; measure reporting began in January 2025.