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Use of Imaging Studies for Low Back Pain

CBE ID
0052
Endorsement Status
1.1 New or Maintenance
Previous Endorsement Cycle
Is Under Review
No
1.3 Measure Description

The percentage of patients with a primary diagnosis of low back pain who did not have an imaging study (plain X-ray, MRI, CT scan) within 28 days of diagnosis.

        • 1.14 Numerator

          Patients who received an imaging study (x-ray, CT, MRI) within the 28 days following a diagnosis of low back pain.

        • 1.15 Denominator

          All patients 18 years as of January 1 of the measurement year to 50 years as of December 31 of the measurement year with a claim/encounter for an outpatient, observation, emergency department, physical therapy, or telehealth visit, or osteopathic or chiropractic manipulative treatment, with a principal diagnosis of low back pain during the Intake Period (January 1 – December 3 of the measurement year).

        • Exclusions

          Because the intent of the measure is to assess imaging for patients with a new episode of low back pain, exclude patients with a recent diagnosis of low back pain.

          Also, exclude any patient who had a diagnosis for which imaging is clinically appropriate. Any of the following meet criteria:

          (1) Cancer
          (2) Trauma
          (3) Recent IV drug abuse
          (4) Neurologic impairment
          (5) HIV
          (6) Spinal infection
          (7) Major organ transplant
          (8) Prolonged use of corticosteroids

        • Most Recent Endorsement Activity
          Measure Retired and Endorsement Removed 2016-2017 Off-Cycle Activities: Measure Review
          Initial Endorsement
          Last Updated
          Removal Date
        • Steward
          National Committee for Quality Assurance
          Steward Organization POC Email
          Steward Organization Copyright

          © [2005] by the National Committee for Quality Assurance
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          Washington, DC 20005