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Human Resources

Rules and Regulations Relating to Roles of Nonphysician Providers in Radiology Practices

Published Online:Oct 10 2018https://doi.org/10.1148/rg.2018180031
Correction(s) for this article

Abstract

Incorporating nonphysician providers into radiology practices is likely to become increasingly necessary for practices to thrive in the modern health care milieu.

Nonphysician providers (NPPs) in radiology practices include nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and radiologist assistants. The number of NPPs has been increasing both within and outside of radiology departments. In order for leaders in radiology departments to incorporate NPPs effectively into their practice, they require nuanced knowledge of appropriate coding and billing for services these professionals render. Furthermore, the existing body of literature suggests that with a defined and appropriate scope of practice and proper supervision, NPPs can provide care that is at least equivalent to that provided by attending physicians for narrowly defined tasks. A broader understanding of the rapidly evolving NPP workforce both within radiology practices and throughout other health care specialties will inform practice leaders who are adapting to a health care system that is moving rapidly toward value-based incentive payment models.

©RSNA, 2018

An earlier incorrect version of this article appeared online and in print. This article was corrected on November 21, 2018.

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Article History

Received: Feb 21 2018
Revision requested: Apr 2 2018
Revision received: Apr 22 2018
Accepted: Apr 26 2018
Published online: Oct 10 2018
Published in print: Oct 2018