Drivers of unnecessary diagnostic imaging for uncomplicated low back pain among family physicians: a theory-informed qualitative study

This qualitative study aimed to identify the factors influencing family physicians' decisions to order unnecessary diagnostic imaging for uncomplicated low back pain (LBP), despite guidelines recommending against it. Using the Theoretical Domains Framework, the authors conducted interviews with physicians in Alberta, revealing five key themes: beliefs about consequences, skills, environmental context, social influences, and reinforcement. The findings suggest that interventions should focus on addressing physicians' fears of missing serious diagnoses to effectively reduce unnecessary imaging practices.