Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas has contracted with American Imaging Management, Inc. (AIM) to implement the Radiology Quality Initiative (RQI) for outpatient imaging services within the BlueChoice network.

This program helps to promote:

• Appropriate selection and ordering of radiology studies
• Proper sequence of radiology studies
• Efficient use of member's health insurance plan

Since 2004, compliance with the RQI has been required for the following services when performed in a physician’s office, hospital outpatient department or a freestanding imaging center:

• Computed tomography (CT)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA)
• Nuclear Cardiology 
• Positron emission tomography (PET)

Ordering physicians must contact AIM to obtain a RQI number when ordering any of the above studies. Imaging studies performed in conjunction with emergency room services, inpatient hospitalization, outpatient surgery (hospital and freestanding surgery centers) or 23-hour observation will be excluded from this requirement.

RQI is based upon guidelines from medical organizations and medical literature. The guidelines are consistent with the criteria developed by the American College of Radiology (ACR).

For questions regarding RQI, please contact the customer service number listed on the back of your ID card.