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Physical therapists seek authority to refer for X‑rays; radiologists and physicians warn of overuse and safety risks
Summary
Physical therapy representatives urged a state committee to allow PTs to refer patients for plain‑film x‑ray imaging to improve access and reduce costs; radiologists and physician societies countered that expanded ordering could increase unnecessary imaging, strain radiology capacity and risk missed or incidental findings.
Physical therapy representatives asked a state scope‑of‑practice review committee to allow physical therapists to refer patients for plain‑film x‑ray imaging, arguing the change would improve access and reduce out‑of‑pocket costs for patients with high‑deductible plans.
"Greater than 50 percent of Connecticut residents have HDHPs," Joseph Grubicki of the Physical Therapy Association said, and having PTs refer for plain‑film imaging would avoid sending people to emergency departments solely to obtain an image. Mary Claire Capetta added that PTs already work as direct‑access providers in many settings and that the request is limited to referral, not…
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