Best Practice Case Studies-Choosing Wisely Do You Need That Test

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Medical tests and treatments are essential when clearly necessary, such as when using X-rays, antibiotics, or opioid painkillers to address specific health issues. However, there is a risk of undergoing unnecessary medical procedures, often because doctors might recommend them due to patient expectations. Patients should always question the need for any medical intervention by asking their doctors five crucial questions: whether the test or procedure is truly necessary, the risks and side effects, availability of simpler or safer alternatives, consequences of opting out, and financial implications including insurance coverage.<br /><br />Unnecessary medical tests and treatments pose several risks. Exposure to radiation from X-rays and CT scans can lead to cancer after repeated doses, while antibiotics can cause side effects and bacterial resistance if used improperly. Additionally, many tests are expensive and might not be wholly covered by insurance, potentially burdening patients with high costs. The process of undergoing tests can be time-consuming, causing disruptions to personal and professional life. Furthermore, the anticipation of test results can cause anxiety and stress.<br /><br />False positives from unnecessary tests can lead to a cascade of additional, avoidable procedures, increasing costs and risks, and potentially resulting in serious complications, including death. Hence, it's crucial to engage in informed discussions with healthcare providers to discern needed tests and prevent undue medical interventions. This conversation should be guided by personal need and medical advice, focusing on prudent healthcare choices. More resources on making informed medical decisions are available at www.choosingwisely.org/patient-resources.

Meta Tag

Edition 2nd Edition

Related Case 2nd Edition, CASE 33

Topic Metabolic Disorders

Keywords

2nd Edition, CASE 33

2nd Edition

Metabolic Disorders

unnecessary medical procedures

patient expectations

informed discussions

radiation exposure

antibiotic resistance

financial implications

false positives

healthcare choices

prudent medical decisions

choosing wisely