In primary care, what outcome is expected from a PT acting as a first-contact provider regarding imaging and referrals?

• A. Reduction in unnecessary imaging or referrals
• B. Increase in imaging
• C. Delay in care
• D. No impact on imaging

Answer: (A)

When a physical therapist acts as a first-contact provider in primary care, the goal is to reduce unnecessary imaging and referrals. This relies on a thorough musculoskeletal assessment, use of evidence-based decision rules, and awareness of red flags that truly warrant imaging or specialist referral. For many common conditions, initial management can be effective with conservative care—education, targeted exercises, manual therapies, and self-management—without jumping to imaging right away. This approach helps minimize patient exposure to radiation, lowers costs, and improves access by keeping care moving efficiently.

Imaging is pursued when there are clear indications or red flags that imaging will change management, but without those indications, ordering imaging adds cost and may expose patients to unnecessary procedures without improving outcomes. Delaying care or having no impact on imaging would not align with the proactive triage and conservative-management role that first-contact PTs provide.