Misuse of Laboratory Tests and Diagnostic Procedures

Diagnostic tests and procedures serve many purposes. They screen for the presence of occult disease. They help to confirm some diagnoses and reject others. Occasionally, they uncover diagnostic possibilities that would explain elusive symptoms. Once clinical problems have been defined they assist in treatment. They often provide helpful prognostic information. Beyond these explicit purposes, they have reassurance value both for the patient and the physician. They also generate income. That the use of diagnostic tests and procedures is excessive has been shown in numerous studies. 1 2 3 Excessive use can have a number of undesirable effects. It contributes to inflation of hospital . . .