Self-referral concerns for MSK ultrasound

Musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound volumes have increased among non-radiologists, according to a new study in the Journal of the American College of Radiology, that found podiatrists had increased their MSK volume most significantly.

The data was collected between 2000 and 2009 from the CMS Physician/Supplier Procedure Summary Master Files, which showed that the accessibility and availability of ultrasound technology is increasing the rates of self referrals. Low cost is also a contributing factor that was highlighted by insurance providers who expressed concern over the increased usage.

Richard E. Sharpe, MD, MBA, lead author of the study, commented that: "In a health care climate in which increased utilization deserves further scrutiny, this study has demonstrated significant utilization increases by specialties that are not traditional imaging providers and may be in a position to self-refer."

The data showed that MSK volume increased from 56,254 procedures in 2000 to 233,964 in 2009. The increase in volume from non-radiologists, particularly podiatrists, was far higher than among radiologists.