Referring for Images (finished)

Question 1

Of the following, which images are covered if referred by an osteopath?

• X-ray
• CAT scan
• MRI

Answer 1

• X-ray: Spinal images fully covered under Medicare benefits
• CAT scan: Not covered
• MRI: Not covered

Question 2

Bulk billing from medical specialists (GPs) now includes which regions and under what circumstances?

Answer 2

• Head/Brain:
  
  • Unexplained seizures
  • Unexplained chronic headaches with suspected intracranial pathology
• Cervical spine:
  
  • Suspected cervical radiculopathy
  • Suspected cervical spine trauma
• Knee:
  
  • Following acute knee trauma with; inability to extend the knee suggesting acute meniscal tear
  • Clinical findings suggesting acute anterior cruciate tear

Question 3

True or False.

If an osteopathic practitioner is comfortable in their interpretation of MRIs and CTs, sending a patient directly for an MRI or CT may be less expensive than referring to a GP, of which referral will then need to be provided to a specialist.

Answer 3

True