upper waypoint

Quick Read: Doctors Groups Urge Fewer Routine Tests

Apr 4, 2012

Save Article

Failed to save article

Please try again

It's hard for both doctors and patients to wrap their minds around, but many tests and procedures commonly done are unnecessary. These procedures drive up cost and don't help patients. By some estimates, as much as one-third of all procedures performed in the United States are of "questionable benefit."

Source: Nytimes

In a move likely to alter treatment standards in hospitals and doctors' offices nationwide, a group of nine medical specialty boards plans to recommend on Wednesday that doctors perform 45 common tests and procedures less often, and to urge patients to question these services if they are offered.