Advanced Imaging Interpretation by Radiologists and Nonradiologist Physicians: A Training Issue.

Area of Science:

• Radiology and Medical Imaging
• Healthcare Policy and Management
• Physician Training and Education

Background:

• Hospitals are primary sites for formal imaging interpretation training.
• Nonradiologist physicians' involvement in advanced imaging interpretation is not well-documented.
• Assessing the adequacy of training for nonradiologists in interpreting advanced imaging is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the extent of formal interpretations of advanced imaging by nonradiologist physicians.
• To evaluate the potential for adequate training in advanced imaging interpretation for nonradiologists.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of Medicare Part B datasets (2015) using Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes for CT, MRI, PET, and nuclear imaging.
• Determination of interpretation location using Medicare place-of-service codes (inpatient, outpatient, emergency departments).
• Comparison of procedure volumes between radiologists and nonradiologist physicians across specialties.

Main Results:

• Radiologists interpreted over 99% of hospital-based CT and MRI studies.
• Nonradiologists interpreted 5.81% of PET scans and a significant 36.86% of general nuclear medicine studies.
• Cardiologists accounted for the majority of nonradiologist interpretations, but overall involvement remained low for most specialties.

Conclusions:

• Except for radiologists and cardiologists, most medical specialties lack sufficient advanced imaging interpretation training.
• Nonradiologist physicians interpret a minimal proportion of advanced imaging studies.
• Allowing nonradiologists to interpret advanced imaging requires carefully controlled circumstances and adequate training.