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Related Experiment Videos

Managing utilization of new diagnostic tests.

Kent Lewandrowski1

  • 1Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.

Clinical Leadership & Management Review : the Journal of CLMA
|December 25, 2003
PubMed
Summary

Optimizing laboratory test utilization is crucial for cost reduction and improved patient care. Strategies must adapt to novel diagnostic tests, requiring pathologist leadership in institutional review processes.

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Area of Science:

  • Clinical Pathology
  • Health Services Research
  • Medical Diagnostics

Background:

  • Inappropriate laboratory test utilization contributes significantly to hospital costs, estimated between 10% and 50%.
  • Traditional utilization control methods are often ineffective for novel diagnostic tests in molecular genetics and oncology.
  • Reducing unnecessary testing offers financial benefits and improves patient outcomes by minimizing false positives and iatrogenic anemia.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore effective approaches for laboratory test utilization management.
  • To highlight the critical role of clinical pathologists in controlling the adoption of new diagnostic technologies.
  • To present institutional strategies for optimizing laboratory test ordering and reducing costs.

Main Methods:

  • Reviewing existing strategies for laboratory test utilization control.
  • Analyzing the drivers of increasing laboratory costs, particularly novel diagnostic tests.
  • Establishing institutional structures for the review and approval of new laboratory tests.
  • Fostering interdepartmental collaboration between clinicians and pathologists.

Main Results:

  • Novel diagnostic tests, especially in molecular genetics and oncology, are key drivers of rising laboratory costs.
  • A collaborative approach led by clinical pathologists is essential for managing the utilization of new tests.
  • Successful utilization management requires data analysis, interdepartmental teamwork, and strategic planning.

Conclusions:

  • Effective laboratory test utilization requires a shift from traditional methods to a more adaptive, pathologist-led approach for novel diagnostics.
  • Institutional review and approval processes are vital for preventing the introduction of inappropriate technologies.
  • Optimizing test utilization balances clinician needs with the prevention of unnecessary testing and associated healthcare costs.

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