Abstract: Computer implemented methods and systems for reducing costs for medical goods or service. In accordance with an embodiment, a host system maintains service provider information which includes, for each of a plurality of medical imaging service providers within a payor's network, a list of medical imaging services that are provided by the service provider and a corresponding fee charged for each of the medical imaging services. In response to receiving an order, from a referrer, for a recommended medical imaging service, the system automatically generates bids, for performing the recommended medical imaging service, on behalf of service providers that are capable of performing the recommended medical imaging service. Such bids are automatically generated based on the maintained service provider information. The system also selects at least one bid. Where more than one bid is selected, a patient can be given the option of making the final selection.

Abstract: Computer implemented methods and systems for reducing costs for medical goods and services. In an embodiment, a host system maintains service provider information, which includes, for each of a plurality of medical imaging services providers within the payor's network, a list of medical imaging services that are provided by the service provider and a corresponding fee charged for each medical imaging service. In response to receiving an order, from a referrer, for a recommended medical imaging service for a patient, the system identifies, based on the service provider information, service providers capable of performing the recommended medical imaging service. The system also selects at least one service provider capable of performing the recommended medical imaging service. Where more than one service provider is selected, a patient can be given the option of making a final selection of which service provider will perform the medical imaging service for the patient.