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.
