The American College of Radiology (ACR) has released an update to the ACR Appropriateness Criteria, which includes 190 diagnostic imaging and interventional radiology topics with 938 clinical variants covering more than 1,680 clinical scenarios. This update includes one new and seven revised topics. All topics include a narrative, evidence table and a literature search summary.
“We are now in the one-year ’Educational and Operations‘ testing period for the Protecting Access to Medicare Act (PAMA). Now, more than ever, is the time to create consistent behaviors utilizing appropriate use criteria for all patients. The ACR Appropriateness Criteria is a comprehensive and critical resource that helps providers fulfill the new PAMA requirement and ensure high-quality care,” says Frank J. Rybicki, MD, PhD, FACR, chair of the ACR Committee on Appropriateness Criteria.
The new topics in the release are:
1. Cerebrovascular Disease – Child
Recently revised topics include:
2. Assessment of Gravid Cervix
4. Hematuria
6. Suspected Small-Bowel Obstruction
7. Radiologic Management of Iliofemoral Venous Thrombosis
The ACR Appropriateness Criteria was first introduced in 1993 by expert panels in diagnostic imaging and interventional radiology to help providers make the most appropriate imaging or treatment decision for specific clinical conditions. These guidelines are reviewed annually to help enhance quality of care and contribute to the most efficacious use of radiology.
Referring physicians and other providers may use the ACR Appropriateness Criteria to fulfill new PAMA requirements that they consult appropriate use criteria prior to ordering advanced diagnostic imaging for Medicare patients. The ACR is designated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services as a qualified Provider-Led Entity.
For more information about ACR Appropriateness Criteria, visit the ACR website.
