Physical Therapy and Radiography Collaboration at UNLV Enhances Diagnostic Testing Education

Advancing Diagnostic Testing Education in Physical Therapy at UNLV

The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) has long been committed to integrating comprehensive clinical skills into its physical therapy program. With recent changes in state regulations, the university’s curriculum now emphasizes diagnostic testing and imaging, preparing future physical therapists to play an active role in patient diagnostics. This shift reflects the evolving landscape of healthcare, wherein physical therapists are increasingly entrusted with ordering and interpreting diagnostic images such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scans.

For students aspiring to excel in physical therapy, understanding diagnostic testing is no longer optional; it’s a critical component of effective patient care. UNLV’s Department of Physical Therapy has responded by incorporating specialized courses like the DPT 758 – Diagnostic Testing and Imaging, which equips students with the skills necessary to understand and utilize diagnostic imaging confidently.

Why Diagnostic Testing Matters in Modern Physical Therapy

The ability to order and interpret diagnostic images marks a significant advancement in physical therapy. Historically, PTs referred patients to physicians for imaging, relying solely on clinical assessment and radiologist reports. However, recent legislative changes in Nevada and several other states now permit licensed physical therapists to directly order imaging services, streamlining diagnosis and treatment planning.

This shift benefits patient outcomes by enabling more immediate and tailored interventions. It also enhances the professional scope of physical therapists, positioning them as more integral contributors to the diagnostic process. Consequently, curriculum adjustments at institutions like UNLV ensure students are prepared for this expanded role, emphasizing both the technical aspects of imaging and the clinical decision-making process.

The Structure of the Diagnostic Imaging Course at UNLV

The DPT 758 course at UNLV centers on teaching students how to order appropriate diagnostic tests, interpret basic imaging results, and collaborate effectively with radiography professionals. Unlike traditional courses that focused mainly on reading images, this program emphasizes proactive ordering—knowing when and what to request, and understanding the implications of those decisions.

Second-year PT students participate in realistic case studies, analyzing clinical scenarios to determine the most suitable imaging modality. They learn to balance diagnostic benefits against potential risks, such as radiation exposure, aligning with best practices that prioritize patient safety.

To enrich this learning, UNLV has fostered collaborations between PT students and radiography students from the Department of Health Physics and Diagnostic Sciences. This interprofessional education (IPE) fosters mutual understanding of each discipline’s language, methods, and limitations—an essential skill in integrated healthcare settings.

Interprofessional Collaboration: Linking Physical Therapy and Radiography

One of the hallmarks of UNLV’s approach is bringing together students from different health sciences disciplines. For example, PT students discuss and review imaging cases with radiography students, gaining insights into technical nuances such as patient positioning, image quality, and radiation safety.

This collaborative process not only improves students’ technical competence but also enhances their communication skills—crucial for effective interdisciplinary teamwork. As radiography students teach PT students about technical aspects of imaging, PT students gain a deeper appreciation of the imaging process, which translates into more precise clinical requests and interpretations.

According to Heidi Shelton, clinical coordinator for radiography program at UNLV, this experience “gives students an advantage that many other schools might not offer,” emphasizing the importance of practical, collaborative learning environments. Moreover, students develop a better understanding of each other’s roles, which ultimately benefits patient care environments.

Impact on Education and Patient Safety

The updated curriculum at UNLV underscores the importance of accurate imaging orders to avoid unnecessary tests and minimize patient exposure to radiation. For instance, the course emphasizes that 90% of a diagnosis should come from patient history and physical examination, with imaging serving as a confirmatory tool.

Students learn to recognize the risk-versus-benefit ratio in imaging, understanding when to advocate for necessary tests and when to avoid superfluous procedures. This approach not only improves diagnostic accuracy but also aligns with the principles of safe, patient-centered care.

Benefits for Radiography Students and the Broader Healthcare Community

While the primary focus is on training physical therapy students, the collaborative model at UNLV benefits radiography students as well. Teaching PT students helps radiography students consolidate their technical knowledge, improves their communication skills, and fosters a culture of teamwork—an essential trait in busy clinical environments.

Furthermore, this interprofessional education prepares students for real-world clinical settings where teamwork across disciplines enhances patient outcomes. As Ivan Corona, a radiography student, notes, “Working with PT students and understanding their perspective helps us improve patient care in hospitals and clinics.”

Future Outlook: Preparing Students for Evolving Healthcare Demands

UNLV’s forward-thinking curriculum reflects a broader trend across healthcare education: equipping students with the skills to operate confidently within a multidisciplinary framework. As more states follow Nevada’s lead in allowing PTs to order imaging, the importance of this training will only increase.

For prospective students interested in the intersection of physical therapy and diagnostic imaging, UNLV offers a comprehensive educational environment. The university’s emphasis on interprofessional collaboration, patient safety, and cutting-edge curriculum design prepares graduates to excel in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.

Next Steps for Aspiring Students

If you’re considering a career in physical therapy with a focus on diagnostic testing, exploring programs like UNLV’s can be a valuable step. Submit your application today to join a forward-looking program that embraces interdisciplinary learning and prepares you for modern healthcare roles.

Interested in learning more about diagnostic testing, radiography, or physical therapy careers? Contact UNLV’s admissions office or schedule a consultation to find out how their programs can help you meet your professional goals.

By embracing technological advances and interprofessional collaboration, future physical therapists will be better equipped to provide timely, accurate diagnoses—ultimately improving patient outcomes and advancing their careers.