A strategy to promote the rational use of laboratory tests. IFCC Education and Management Division Committee on...

The following guidelines suggest ways in which clinical chemists can promote rational laboratory use by critically evaluating the tests they offer. This may be done by documenting the clinical uses and limitations of tests in the same way that clearly written method descriptions outline analytical procedures in a particular laboratory. This information can then be disseminated on result report forms, during discussion, or through investigational protocols or clinical guidelines. For the information to be of value, it should be the result of clinical and laboratory input reflecting the local practice and facilities. The material should be clearly written, easily accessible to the users, and updated whenever there is a change in methodology or clinical practice. Much can be achieved by applying common sense to common knowledge, and laboratories of all sizes can prepare their own material. In addition, national scientific societies and other professional organizations can assist local endeavors by providing educational material on test evaluation, selection, and use.