Mapping the Characteristics of Physical Therapists Who Order Diagnostic Imaging in Musculoskeletal Care: A Scoping Review of the Published Literature

This project is a scoping review of the published literature involving physical therapists (PTs) who independently order diagnostic imaging for patients with musculoskeletal disorders. PTs are increasingly functioning as first-contact and direct-access providers, some with privileges to independently order diagnostic imaging. Existing research suggest that PT-initiated imaging is safe and appropriate in most cases, however, the literature remains fragmented and has not been synthesized to describe clinician characteristics. Understanding who is exercising imaging ordering privileges is important for informing clinical practice, education, and policy. The review aims to map the characteristics of PTs who independently order diagnostic imaging, including years of experience, training, certifications, practice settings, and regulatory context. Additionally, study-level characteristics such as number of PTs and patients, imaging modalities ordered, and geographic regions represented will be summarized. Findings will be synthesized descriptively to identify patterns and gaps in the existing evidence base.