General Guideline Principles for Diagnostic Testing
and Testing Procedures for workers compensation patients

The New York State workers compensation board has developed these guidelines to help physicians, podiatrists, and other healthcare professionals provide appropriate treatment for Diagnostic Testing and Testing Procedures.

These Workers Compensation Board guidelines are intended to assist healthcare professionals in making decisions regarding the appropriate level of care for their patients with ankle and foot disorders.

The guidelines are not a substitute for clinical judgement or professional experience. The ultimate decision regarding care must be made by the patient in consultation with his or her healthcare provider.

Diagnostic Testing and Testing Procedures of Hip and Groin Disorders

One diagnostic imaging procedure might offer information that is similar to or unique from that found by other procedures. In order to ensure maximum diagnostic accuracy, minimise negative effects on patients, and promote cost effectiveness by avoiding duplication or redundancy, it is wise to choose the procedure(s) for a single diagnostic procedure, a complementary procedure in combination with other procedure(s), or a proper sequential order in multiple procedures.

There is a sizable proportion of specificity and sensitivity for various diagnoses in all diagnostic imaging methods. None of them are distinctive to a particular diagnosis. The choice of imaging procedure and the interpretation of the data should be based on clinical information gathered during the history-taking and physical examination.

The second diagnostic process will be unnecessary if it is carried out only for diagnostic reasons when a diagnostic procedure, along with clinical data, gives adequate information to produce an appropriate diagnosis.

Likewise, if the first or previous procedures, when combined with clinical data, are unable to provide an accurate diagnosis, a subsequent diagnostic procedure (which may be a repeat of the same procedure, depending on whether the rehabilitation physician, radiologist, or surgeon documents that the study was of inadequate quality to make a diagnosis) can be a complementary diagnostic procedure.

Typically, choosing one technique over another depends on the procedure’s availability, the patient’s tolerance, and/or the treating professional’s expertise with it. It is acknowledged that in some circumstances repeat imaging exams and other tests may be necessary depending on the clinical course and to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment.

In order to reassess or stage the pathology when symptoms or findings progress, before surgical treatments and therapeutic injections where necessary, and post-operatively to monitor the healing process, it may be beneficial to repeat diagnostic techniques (such as imaging investigations). It is important to understand that repetitive CT exams result in a higher cumulative radiation dosage and associated dangers.

Based on the mechanism of injury, symptoms, and patient history, several studies may be used for further evaluating hip and groyne injuries when appropriate.

What our office can do if you have workers compensation injuries

We have the experience to help you with their workers compensation injuries. We understand what you are going through and will meet your medical needs and follow the guidelines set by the New York State Workers Compensation Board.

We understand the importance of your workers compensation cases. Let us help you navigate through the maze of dealing with the workers compensation insurance company and your employer.

We understand that this is a stressful time for you and your family. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us so we will do everything we can to make it as easy on you as possible.