The study, which was conducted over a 12-month period, revealed that more than 35,000 patients had unnecessary imaging tests while almost 1,000 underwent unnecessary surgery.
The study compared treatment of the WellPoint patients to guidelines developed by the National Committee on Quality Assurance 2007 Back Recognition Program, which recommends holding off on back pain treatment during the first six weeks of symptoms.
HealthCore’s study found that $23.6 million was spent on back surgery and diagnostic imaging for these patients during the first six weeks after the first reported episode of back pain.
Read about HealthCore’s study on back pain overtreatment.
Becker’s 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit is the top tier event that the people leading the future of pharmacy convene. This 3-day event is built specifically for Chief Pharmacy Officers and senior pharmacy leaders. The sessions examine the workforce, financial and clinical priorities shaping pharmacy today. Becker’s is where candid discussions flourish and new ideas thrive. Becker's 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit
