Radiology Clinical Decision Support FAQs: Non-EPIC Users

What is the national clinical decision support mandate?

This is national legislation that requires all ordering clinicians to consult ‘appropriate use criteria’ for outpatient imaging requests.

Is this new change confined to Yale New Haven Health?

No, all imaging providers across the country are required adopt this change.

When will this start?

January 1st, 2020

Is this for all outpatient imaging requests?

No, the mandate only refers to CT, MRI, PET-CT and Nuclear Medicine exams.

How do I consult ‘appropriate use criteria’ when ordering a test?

Non-EPIC users will need to register for the sanctioned web-based tool (CareSelect's Open Access) in order to obtain clinical decision support guidance.

What will I see when I request a study?

All requests will need to include verification that decision support was used as part of the ordering process. After consulting the web-based platform for appropriateness, it will generate a unique decision support number which needs to be included with the imaging request.

What do I do if my imaging request is graded as being of low appropriateness?

You can continue with your original order or choose from a list of more appropriate imaging tests for the clinical indication at hand.

Will data be collected on my appropriateness ordering patterns?

From 2023, CMS may identify outlying referrers whose imaging requests are most often of low appropriateness.

How do I install the web-based tool in my practice?

Open Access is now available for registration. You will need your NPI number to register. Register to install Open Access tool from CareSelect.

Where can I get more information on this?

Visit the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services website or your radiology department leadership team whose contact details are on the attached letter.