Today’s issue of WorkCompRecap features the TDI-DWC’s recent announcement that it has finalized its Lumbar Spine Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Plan-Based Audit.
The scope and methodology for this Plan-Based Audit note that it will use the indications for ordering lumbar spine MRI identified by the criteria established in the ODG for treatment (2015-2017), including Appendix D – documenting exceptions. The DWC noted that ODG does not recommend MRI for uncomplicated low back pain, with radiculopathy, until after at least one month of conservative therapy unless symptoms of a severe or progressive neurologic deficit were present, and the request for medical records will offer doctors an opportunity to provide documentation to support the appropriateness for ordering MRI before at least one month of conservative therapy.
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