Evaluation of Resident Familiarity and Utilization of the ACR Musculoskeletal Study Appropriateness Criteria in the Context of Medical Decision Support

The American College of Radiology (ACR) Appropriateness Criteria was compiled as a set of evidence-based guidelines to aid both radiologists and referring physicians in making efficient use of imaging resources. In our study, only 60% of residents knew how to obtain a copy of the ACR Appropriateness Criteria, and 90% were unaware of its contents. The overall mean score in a Medical Decision Support Competency Quiz was less than 60%. We propose that there is a clear need for the formal implementation of the ACR Appropriateness Criteria within our radiology training programs. Residents should be better familiarized with its contents so as to improve medical decision support to clinicians, technologists, and radiologists alike.