Changes in eStar to indication groups when ordering advanced imaging exams

Beginning Nov. 6, there will be three main Indication groups from which to choose the “Reason for Exam” when ordering CT, MR, PET and NM exams. These Indication Groups are:

• Common Indications
• Oncology Indications
• Trauma Indications

Common Indications are the most commonly used indications nationally and will now be expanded by default for easier access. The “Other” Indications group is now gone. Depending on the specific radiology order placed, clinicians may see other indication groups/options such as Cardiology.

The indication groups are to improve efficiency. You can also easily search for other indications in the Reason for Exam field.

These Indication Groups are a first step in preparing clinicians for clinical decision support coming in early 2020. The Protecting Access to Medicare Act (PAMA) goes live on Jan 2, 2020, and requires that physicians ordering advanced imaging exams consult Appropriate Use Criteria (AUC) through a qualified Clinical Decision Support Mechanism (qCDSM).

For more information, please see the Tip Sheet “Improving Imaging Orders - Reason for Exam” (available in Hubbl).