section .2300 – criteria and standards for computed tomography

equipment

 

10A NCAC 14C .2301       DEFINITIONS

The following definitions shall apply to all rules in this

Section:

(1)           "Approved computed tomography (CT)

scanner" means a CT scanner which was not operational prior to the

beginning of the review period but which had been issued a certificate of need.

(2)           "Computed tomography" means a technique

whereby a sharply collimated X‑ray beam is passed through the human body

from a source which rotates around the body in a specific arc.  As the beam

passes through the body from its perimeter, its intensity is reduced.  The

transmitted intensity of the beam varies in accordance with the density of the

tissue it passes through and is measured by sensitive detectors and, from this

information, two‑dimensional cross‑sectional pictures or other

images may be generated.  A computer is used to generate the image from the

measurements of X‑ray beam intensity.  Tissue images can be done with or

without contrast agents.  Computed tomography services are rendered by CT

scanners.

(3)           "Computed tomography (CT) scanner" means

an imaging machine which combines the information generated by a scanning X‑ray

source and detector system with a computer to reconstruct a cross‑sectional

image of the full body, including the head.

(4)           "Computed tomography (CT) service area"

means a geographical area defined by the applicant from which the applicant

projects to serve patients.

(5)           "CT scan" means one discrete image of a

patient produced by a CT scanner.

(6)           "Existing CT scanner" means a computed

tomography scanner in operation prior to the beginning of the review period.

(7)           "Fixed CT scanner" means a CT scanner

that is used at only one location or campus.

(8)           "HECT unit" means a unit that is

equivalent to one CT scan which is derived by applying a weighted conversion

factor to a CT scan in accordance with the Head Equivalent Computed Tomography

studies formula developed by the National Electric Manufacturers, based on the

"Leonard Methodology".

(9)           "Mobile CT scanner" means a CT scanner

and transporting equipment which is moved to provide services at two or more

host facilities.

(10)         "Related entity" means the parent company

of the applicant, a subsidiary company of the applicant (i.e., the applicant

owns 50 percent or more of another company), a joint venture in which the

applicant is a member, or a company that shares common ownership with the

applicant (i.e., the applicant and another company are owned by some of the

same persons).

 

History Note:        Authority G.S. 131E‑177(1); 131E‑183(b);

Temporary Adoption Eff. September 1, 1993 for a period of 180 days or until the permanent rule becomes effective, whichever is sooner;

Eff. February 1, 1994;

Amended Eff. February 1, 2008.