unnecessary medical tests?

Todays email had a link to this survey , different specialties were polled about what tests used routinely  should Be reconsidered as necessary .  It is a very interesting list from a wide group of specialists.  Can you identify with any of these? Unfortunately I have had la number of them myself!


http://www.medpagetoday.com/upload/2012/4/4/topfiveFINAL.pdf

[Red_Star]

"Long term acid suppression for treatment of GERD"...glad to see that listed as an unnecessary treatment. Most acid reflux conditions, including GERD, are hardly ever associated with too much stomach acid.

http://www.medhelp.org/posts/GERD-Acid-Reflux/HELP-for-GERD-sufferers/show/1657073

[HVAC]

I always ask if a test is necessary and for me the answer most of the time is "NO". I have turned down four MRIs this year, endoscopy, and colonoscopy (I am not yet 50 an no cancer risk). I tell specialists how much a test will cost me. Most of the time they do not know.

I have a good PCP who does not order many tests. She is a good diagnostician with out all the fancy tests. I have had lots of tests but I try to only stick to what I have to have.

Alex

[ku111]

I see so much wasteful spending on tests (as well as many others).  In all honesty I have come to the conclusion that there are many dr's who trust their instincts and intelligence more than others.  Many dr's take the time to really think through symptoms and others just order tests to rule things out so they don't have to or they are unsure.  I don't know if it is right or wrong but labs/tests are the biggest money makers.  I really think this will only become worse not better.  They are coming up with more and more tests.