Which of the following is a direct cost-saving goal of a QA program?

• A. Reduce downtime
• B. Increase retakes
• C. Increase film waste
• D. Increase exam time

Answer: (A)

Reducing downtime is the direct way a QA program saves money because keeping the imaging system available minimizes lost production time and avoidable service costs. When QA includes preventive maintenance, regular quality checks, and quick fault detection and repair, the equipment runs reliably and remains ready for patient exams. Fewer unplanned outages mean more consistent scheduling, better workflow, and less overtime or expensive emergency service—all of which cut obvious costs.

The other options would tend to increase costs. Retakes require extra film, processing, and personnel time, plus added patient dose and potential scheduling disruptions. More film waste consumes supplies and disposal resources, raising expenses. Longer exam times reduce throughput, decreasing the number of patients imaged in a day and increasing overall operational costs.