In an age where prevention is a key component to affordable healthcare, it seems that we may have reached a stage where things have gotten out of hand, and many of the tests and treatments that people receive might be over done. The question is, is it case of doctors being overzealous in the treatment of their patients, or are they simply catering to the demands of a public that has come to expect some tangible form of treatment whenever they visit their doctor?

The answer, it seems, is not a straightforward one, and it may be that the situation is a combination of both factors working in unison. Whatever be the case, a new study has determined that it may be time for doctors and patients to reevaluate how things are done and perhaps begin focusing more on the doctor-patient relationship, keeping in mind that more care does not mean better care.

This is especially true when tests designed for high risk candidates are given to relatively healthy individuals, thereby incurring additional costs while exposing them to potentially hazardous elements, including chemicals and radiation. The additional testing is all the more unnecessary when you consider that prevention can involve some simple steps, including proper nutrition, getting enough exercise and sleep, reducing stress, and avoiding cigarettes and alcohol. Unfortunately, some people believe that many of these simple and common sense approaches have been replaced with technology or some sort of test. In certain cases, the technology may be outdated due to the rapidly evolving nature of medicine.

Just recently, several respected sources of medical information, including the New England Journal of Medicine and the American Cancer Society, have indicated that invasive tests are over prescribed and even administered to people who do not need them. The situation is compounded by the fact that these tests are easier than ever to order, and advertising has moved many of them into the forefront of the public’s psyche, thereby encouraging patients to request them by name.

However, on the flipside, it is important to keep in mind that the situation is not simply a case of superfluous tests being over used, because many people clearly benefit from the technology, which has saved countless lives. In fact, there are some in the medical establishment who feel that because the testing clearly improves survival, it is worth the extra effort and cost.

There are, of course, legal matters to consider, as well. Doctors are under the constant threat of litigation, and often, to protect themselves from malpractice suits, they cover all of their bases and sometimes administer more tests and procedures than may be necessary. And finally, in a fee-for-service environment, it is difficult to ignore the fact that more tests and procedures result in more income for the doctor.

In the end, the solution is not a simple one, and will require continual communication between everyone involved. If you have questions or concerns about tests or procedures, do not hesitate to discuss this with your doctor, and when appropriate (i.e., when you feel it is necessary), seek out a second opinion.

For more information about your role regarding tests and procedures, visit the homepage for the Foundation for Informed Medical Decision Making.