Patients who first saw a physical therapist were less likely to be prescribed opioids, receive advanced imaging services and visit an ED. They were 19.3 percent more likely to be hospitalized than patients who never saw a physical therapist or who saw one later.
The LBP patients who saw a physical therapist as their first point of care had lower out-of-pocket costs, which shifted away from outpatient and pharmacy toward provider settings.
Here is the study.
More articles on spine:
Study surprises with finding on molecule for SCI repair: 5 insights
8 things for spine surgeons to know for Thursday — May 17, 2018
Dr. Kapil Moza earns Super Doctor Award for 3rd consecutive year: 5 details
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.