Ordering of diagnostic imaging by physical therapists: a multi-center analysis of successful implementation

The profession of physical therapy in the United States has evolved significantly since the American Physical Therapy Association introduced Vision 2020, advocating for consumers' direct access to physical therapy services. As the use of direct access expands, it becomes essential to examine successful models and resources, such as those that allow physical therapist referral for diagnostic imaging. This study aims to report the utilization, appropriateness, and reimbursement for diagnostic imaging referrals made by physical therapists during routine care across multiple health care organizations.

This study was a retrospective observational study of patients seeking care for neuromusculoskeletal conditions at ambulatory physical therapy clinics at three healthcare organizations. Data from each organization related to physical therapist referral for diagnostic imaging was reviewed to determine utilization rate, appropriateness, and reimbursement. American College of Radiology (ACR) criteria were used to determine appropriateness of diagnostic imaging referral.

Seventy-five physical therapists signed 596 referrals for diagnostic imaging during 61,012 episodes of routine care. The utilization rate was 9.8 diagnostic imaging referrals per 1000 episodes of care. Ninety-one percent of the referrals were consistent with evidence based ACR guidelines and deemed appropriate. There were no instances of insurance denial when a physical therapist signed the referral for diagnostic imaging.

Physical therapists with privileges to directly refer for diagnostic imaging did so judiciously and followed ACR guidelines when referring patients for imaging. The absence of insurance reimbursement claim denial contrasts a common concern about physical therapist referral for diagnostic imaging. Physical therapists referred for appropriate imaging studies and are unlikely to contribute to diagnostic imaging overutilization.