Medical Tests: Which Ones Do You Really Need?

"First, do no harm," is a prime directive for doctors. But there are times when medical tests do the patient more harm than good by leading to unnecessary and dangerous biopsies, by damaging internal organs, and even by raising the risk of cancer. They are also a big part of the reason for America’s soaring medical costs.

 

After decades of a “test-first, ask-questions-later” mentality, there recently has been a profound shift in the attitude of nation’s healthcare providers.

 

The American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Foundation recently issued new guidelines regarding 45 medical tests it believes are overused and may expose patients to possible harm.

 

Family physician Dr. Stephanie Haridopolos is glad to see the ABIM's recommendations. "I think patients are being given too many tests," she tells Newsmax Health. "Unfortunately, America has become a litigious society, and many of the overused diagnostic tests are performed to make sure the doctors aren't missing something.

 

"Medical costs are skyrocketing

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