Choosing Wisely, another way to spread blood transfusion's good practices

Area of Science:

• Medical Practice
• Evidence-Based Medicine
• Health Policy

Background:

• Clinical practice recommendations are essential but often complex for patients and general practitioners.
• There is a need for a more concise and practical approach to medical decision-making.
• The Choosing Wisely initiative offers a solution by focusing on reducing unnecessary medical interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and advocate for the Choosing Wisely approach in medical practice.
• To highlight the importance of identifying and questioning overused medical exams, treatments, and procedures.
• To promote the principle of 'better treated with less' for improved patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Medical societies identify "things physicians and patients should question."
• Clear and evidence-based replies are provided for these identified items.
• International comparisons of Choosing Wisely recommendations are analyzed.

Main Results:

• The Choosing Wisely approach aims to reduce the overuse of non-beneficial medical services.
• Many countries, including France, are adopting or planning to adopt this initiative.
• Blood transfusion societies have published recommendations, with initial studies showing impact.

Conclusions:

• Priorities for reducing unnecessary medical interventions are remarkably consistent across different countries.
• The Choosing Wisely framework provides a practical tool for implementing evidence-based medicine.
• Adoption of Choosing Wisely can lead to more efficient and effective healthcare delivery.