MRI is currently the gold standard for identifying radicular pathology, but unfortunately, it requires preauthorization, which isn’t easy to obtain. Physical tests are what most practitioners depend on – despite the marginal reliability of the tests. The information in this article brings history and observation to the forefront of radicular diagnostics. Each factor listed can significantly increase the clinician’s ability to diagnose radiculopathies.
Interesting Quote
The Next Generation of MCOs
"Managed care was 'soup to nuts' with a 'we'll take care of you' attitude. As consumers demand alternative care, MCOs are obliged to respond to attract and retain members. When they offer alternative medicine, they are breaking their original credo, dissembling what managed care organizations were built upon. They are becoming the next generation of indemnity plans."
-- J.D. Kleinke, vice president, Managed Care for HCIA, a Baltimore-based health care information company.
Source: Changing their ways to keep up with the times. Managed Healthcare, June 1997.