Ordering of Diagnostic Imaging by Physical Therapists: A 5-Year Retrospective Practice Analysis

Significant progress has been made in implementing direct access. As more therapists transition into direct access roles, it seems prudent to consider how additional resources common to other first-contact providers might impact patient care.

Direct referral for diagnostic imaging by physical therapists is relatively rare in the civilian setting and little has been published on the subject. The primary objective of this study was to examine the appropriateness of diagnostic imaging studies referred by civilian physical therapists at an academic medical center. Secondary objectives were to track reimbursement data and overall use rates.

This was a single-center, retrospective practice analysis of 10 physical therapists over a period of nearly 5 years.

The electronic medical record was reviewed for each patient who had an imaging referral placed by a physical therapist. Relevant clinical exam findings and patient history were provided to a radiologist who then applied the American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria to determine appropriateness. Reimbursement data and therapist use rates were also evaluated.

Of the 108 total imaging studies, 91% were considered appropriate. Overall, use rates per direct access evaluation were 9% for plain film x-rays and 4% for advanced imaging. Reimbursement was 100%.

This study was limited to 10 physical therapists at 1 practice location. Appropriateness was evaluated by 1 radiologist. The educational background of referring therapists was not evaluated.

Physical therapists demonstrated appropriate use of diagnostic imaging in the vast majority of cases (91%). They were judicious in their use of imaging, and there were no issues with reimbursement. These findings could be useful for physical therapists interested in acquiring diagnostic imaging referral privileges.