Impact of Ireland's new diagnostic imaging referral pathway: a gp-based cross-sectional analysis

General practitioners (GPs) in the Republic of Ireland have historically faced limited access to diagnostic imaging. A new national initiative allowing GPs to refer patients to private providers for imaging studies may alter referral patterns and improve patient care.

This exploratory study aimed to evaluate the perceived impact of expanded GP access to diagnostic imaging on referral patterns and patient care quality in Irish primary care.

A cross-sectional analysis was conducted of 620 diagnostic imaging referrals from 45 GP clinics across all Community Health Organization (CHO) regions, spanning June 2021 to August 2022. Data included imaging modalities (X-ray, DEXA, CT, MRI), referral frequencies to emergency departments (EDs), acute medical units (AMUs), outpatient clinics, and GP perceptions of care quality. GPs also provided retrospective assessments of how they would have managed each case prior to the initiative.

ED and AMU referrals decreased by 89%, while outpatient clinic referrals declined by 53%. Concurrently, management of cases within GP settings rose substantially. In total, 91% of participating GPs reported improved patient care quality, citing more timely and accessible imaging as a key factor.

Despite the study's exploratory design and reliance on retrospective GP assessments, these findings suggest that broadening GP access to diagnostic imaging may reduce hospital-based referrals and enhance patient care. Ongoing monitoring and further research are recommended to confirm the long-term impacts and sustainability of this initiative.