Your mobile imaging partner interacts directly with your most vulnerable residents. They handle protected health information. They produce the diagnostic images that guide clinical decisions. Here is what to look for before signing a contract.
Verify ARRT Certification and State Licensing
Every technologist performing exams in your facility should hold current ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) certification. This confirms they passed national competency exams and maintain continuing education.
Most states also require separate radiologic technologist licensing. Ask for state license numbers and verify them through your state health department. Do not accept a provider who cannot produce these credentials on request.
Confirm NPI and Medicare Enrollment
Any mobile imaging company billing Medicare must have a valid National Provider Identifier (NPI) and be enrolled as a Medicare supplier. You can verify NPI numbers through the CMS NPPES database at no cost.
Most SNFs serve Medicare residents. Working with a non-enrolled provider creates billing complications and compliance risk. Confirm Medicaid enrollment too if applicable.
Ask the Right Equipment Questions
The difference between DR (Direct Radiography) and CR (Computed Radiography) equipment is significant. DR produces higher-quality images with lower radiation doses. Processing takes under 5 seconds versus 30 to 90 seconds for CR.
Ask what manufacturer they use (GE, Fujifilm, Canon, Carestream are the top brands). Ask when equipment was last calibrated and whether they carry backup units. A provider using outdated film-based equipment is a red flag in 2026.
Define Response Time SLAs in Writing
Response time is critical for STAT orders. Get written SLAs for both STAT requests (target: 2 to 4 hours) and routine requests (target: same day or next business day). Ask about after-hours and weekend availability. The best providers offer 24/7 on-call with guaranteed response windows.
Clarify report turnaround times too. Preliminary reads should be available within 2 hours for urgent cases. Final reports should arrive within 24 hours.
HIPAA Compliance and Insurance
Your mobile imaging provider handles PHI including patient demographics, clinical orders, and diagnostic images. Require a signed Business Associate Agreement (BAA) before any services are performed. Verify they use encrypted transmission for images and that their PACS or cloud storage meets HIPAA security standards.
Confirm they carry professional liability insurance with minimum coverage of $1 million per occurrence and $3 million aggregate. Request a Certificate of Insurance naming your facility as an additional insured.