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Australian Health Review Australian Health Review Society
Journal of the Australian Healthcare & Hospitals Association
RESEARCH ARTICLE

GP access to MRI: the Australian reality

Owen M Bradfield

Australian Health Review 33(2) 311 - 314
Published: 2009

Abstract

Twelve months ago, the Australian Medical Association (AMA) called upon the Federal Labor Government to implement a previous coalition policy allowing general practitioners to directly refer patients for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the knee and brain. To support their position, the AMA commissioned a University of Sydney report evaluating the health care and economic outcomes of the policy. The AMA reported that the results supported the policy and would result in a $42 million saving from fewer computed tomography (CT) scans and fewer specialist referrals and consultations. Arguably, this was not an accurate portrayal of the results. Further research is needed, and ongoing dialogue with radiologists and other key stakeholders is urged, to ensure that access to MRI facilities will continue to meet future demand and that GPs will be adequately trained in utilising MRI services.

https://doi.org/10.1071/AH090311

© AHHA 2009

Committee on Publication Ethics

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