Use of Imaging Studies for Low Back Pain
Percentage of patients 18-50 years of age with a diagnosis of low back pain who did not have an imaging study (plain X-ray, MRI, CT scan) within 28 days of the diagnosis.
Date Reviewed: November 19, 2017
Support
-
Group/Practice
Individual Clinician
Measure Info
MIPS 312
NQF 0052
CMS 312
NQF Endorsement Removed
Measure Type
Process
Measure Steward
National Committee for Quality Assurance
Clinical Topic Area
Low Back Pain
Utilization and Cost
Care Setting
Outpatient
Data Source
Electronic Health Records
ACP supports QPP measure 312: "Use of Imaging Studies for Low Back Pain" because inappropriate imaging is not associated with improved clinical outcomes. Implementation will likely prevent prescription of unnecessary imaging in patients with low back pain and unnecessary radiation exposure and treatment. Furthermore, measure specifications include appropriate exclusion criteria and high-quality evidence exists to form the basis of the measure.