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.