More evidence on the need for evidence based medicine

We always knew that as a country we did too many medical tests.  We even had some idea that in addition to wasting money, some of the tests could be harmful.  However, if the point needed reinforcement we have it with the study released recently stating that there are 15,000 extra cancer deaths a year due to CT scans.

We need to remember that there are ramifications to all actions – Asking for that extra test, or a Dr recommending that extra test – doesn’t just increase costs to the system, it could be killing you. 

So how do we appropriately limit tests?  One way is through the use of treatment protocols.  Some think protocols or "cookbook medicine" is a bad idea, just an excuse to limit care.  However, the reality is that sometimes there is a right way and wrong way to treat a condition.  A Dr. does not need the freedom to prescribe a CT scan for a sore throat, because there is no possible way that will lead to improved care.  

Are there potential pitfalls involved?  Yes.  Safeguards must be put in place to ensure that insurance companies do not use protocols as a way to limit needed care.   But in order to expand health care to all we need to be cutting the waste out of the system.  One piece of the puzzle that will both save lives and save money is to eliminate unnecessary testing.

Compromise – not always pretty, but it moves the ball forward

They say a true compromise is one where neither side is happy…  Although as of this writing we’re still waiting on details of the deal that eliminates the public option from the Senate Health Care bill, it seems clear no one will be jumping with joy.

While it would be easy to rant about not getting what we originally hoped for in health reform, we need to remember why this journey is so important…  The millions of people who don’t have coverage and so don’t get adequate health care, the tens of thousands forced into bankruptcy by out of control health costs (that most of them thought they had coverage for), and the unknowable (but significant) number that die needlessly every day because of our health care (non) system.

With that in mind, if giving up the public option (for now) means we’ll expand access to health care, then we have to live with it for the sake of those who will not live without the positive changes the compromise will bring.

Health Care Vigil

The Maine Council of Churches is sponsoring a Health Care Vigil on Tuesday, December 8 at 4:00 PM in Lobsterman Park in Portland Square, on the corner of Temple and Middle Streets in Portland. For more information, take a look here.