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Updated: May 2, 2026
09:02
Immunoglobulin Gene Sequence Analysis In Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: From Patient Material To Sequence Interpretation
Published on: November 26, 2018
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["IGeL" or not: cancer screening always needs comprehensive information].
1Institut für Qualität und Wirtschaftlichkeit im Gesundheitswesen (IQWiG), Im Mediapark 8, 50670, Köln, Deutschland, klaus.koch@iqwig.de.
Bundesgesundheitsblatt, Gesundheitsforschung, Gesundheitsschutz
|February 25, 2014
Summary
Cancer screening tests offered as add-on services may cause harm without clear benefits. Healthcare providers must inform patients about potential risks and uncertain advantages for informed decision-making.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Health Services Research
- Medical Ethics
Context:
- Cancer screening tests like ultrasound, skin, and PSA tests are common out-of-pocket services in Germany.
- These services, known as Individuelle Gesundheitsleistungen (IGeL), supplement statutory health insurance coverage.
- Many cancer screenings are not covered by insurers due to unclear or unfavorable benefit-harm profiles.
Purpose:
- To outline the challenges and criteria for assessing the benefits of cancer screening tests.
- To highlight the importance of transparency regarding the benefits, harms, and uncertainties of cancer screening tests.
- To emphasize the ethical obligation of healthcare providers in informing patients about IGeL cancer screenings.
Summary:
- Cancer screening tests offered as individual out-of-pocket services carry potential harms.
- The benefits of these screenings are often unclear, contested, or non-existent.
- A thorough benefit assessment is crucial for determining the value of these tests.
Impact:
- Informed patient decision-making regarding cancer screening is paramount.
- Healthcare providers must disclose comprehensive information on benefits, harms, and uncertainties.
- This ensures ethical practice, particularly for supplementary health services like IGeL.
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