Observational Study of the Downstream Consequences of Inappropriate MRI of the Lumbar Spine

ConclusionsThe association between early imaging and increased utilization was apparent even in a setting largely unaffected by incentives of fee-for-service care. Reduced imaging cost is only part of the motivation to improve adherence with guidelines for the use of MRI. Early scans are associated with excess surgery, higher costs for other care, and worse outcomes, including potential harms from prescription opioids.
Source: Journal of General Internal Medicine - Category: Internal Medicine Source Type: research