At Healthsouth Medical Center in Richmond, VA, we perform all our cardiac
and vascular inhouse studies as portable exams.  The hospital feels this
provides good customer service, as patients do not have to be transported
through the halls in hospital gowns or end up waiting in some cold holding
area.  It took awhile for me to get used to it, especially with carotid
exams, but now it is not really a big deal.  It does add a bit to to the
total exam time, but the hospital is willing to allow for that for customer
satisfaction.  This situation differs from yours though Sue, in that we are
a much smaller hospital.  Our department is located right near the service
elevator which exits directly onto the patient floors, making it quite
feasible.
Carol Miranda