Strategies to optimize the appropriateness of MRI and CT requests - Strategies and tools for optimal use

Notice Santécom: 108896

Quebec, like the great majority of comparable provinces or countries, faces a problem of access to MRI and CT. In addition to potential consequences for patients' health and quality of life, the economic impacts of excess waiting could be significant. On the other hand, the issue of examinations considered inappropriate is frequently raised. Some estimate that in Canada overuse represents between 10% and 20% of the examinations performed, which imposes a considerable burden on the health network. In an effort to improve patient access and to ensure for the population the appropriateness of these examinations, the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MHSS) entrusted INESSS with the mandate of documenting the various strategies for optimizing the appropriateness of the MRI and CT related requests.

This review of the literature found that many health authorities in Canada and abroad are currently looking to improve the appropriateness of using expensive imaging devices whose accessibility is often limited. Unfortunately, the scientific literature provides little evidence to support the various initiatives described in this report. What seems to be clear, however, is that overuse is a multifaceted issue where no one-sided approach would be sufficient. Several initiatives, therefore, should be taken forward to achieve a significant and lasting impact.