Sharp Rees-Stealy Quality Measures for Testing for Cause of Back Pain

What was measured?
What percentage of medical group patients, with low back pain, got an evaluation for the condition that met recommended standard for use of X-ray services?

These results are based on a sample of medical group patient records.

Why is it important?
How patients are treated for back pain signals how well medical groups and their doctors see that patients get care that is proven to work. Millions of people suffer from low back pain. Although low back pain can limit your activities, the symptoms usually get better within a month. Unless you have clear signs of a spinal problem, typically you do not need to have tests like an MRI or a CT scan, or even X-rays.

Sharp Rees-Stealy Score: 83.25 percent
State Average: 79.22 percent

Information courtesy of the California Office of the Patient Advocate.