Inappropriate laboratory testing requests: perspectives of clinical laboratory professionals

,Sultan Alasmari

doi:10.53986/ibjm.2021.0039

Abstract

Introduction: Laboratory examinations constitute a major factor in achieving the correct clinical diagnosis for patients. However, the ordering of unnecessary or inappropriate laboratory testing remains common, with consequent consumption of laboratory resources whether human or material. The present work evaluated the level of satisfaction of laboratory practitioners toward the appropriateness of laboratory tests ordered by physicians. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved a total of 256 medical laboratory practitioners representing different qualifications and health care sectors, who answered several questions concerning their knowledge and attitudes toward inappropriate laboratory testing ordered by physicians. Results: More than 85% of respondents agreed with the definition provided in the survey, which is substantially consistent with prior studies. More than 90% affirmed the associated drain on time and resources. However, discrepant responses were received concerning physician awareness of test availability, and participants reported laboratory staff arguments with physicians due to orders for unnecessary tests. Data showed that unnecessary orders were mainly requested by physicians of less experience. Conclusions: Ultimately, dissatisfaction was manifest among clinical laboratory professionals, and educational interventions are required to moderate request behaviors.

Highlights

Laboratory examinations constitute a major factor in achieving the correct clinical diagnosis for patients
This cross-sectional study involved a total of 256 medical laboratory practitioners representing different qualifications and health care sectors, who answered several questions concerning their knowledge and attitudes toward inappropriate laboratory testing ordered by physicians
The survey used in this study was designed to determine factors that may influence laboratory resources and distributed to clinical laboratory professionals all over Saudi Arabia

Summary

Introduction

Laboratory examinations constitute a major factor in achieving the correct clinical diagnosis for patients. The “Choosing Wisely” campaign began in 2014 in the United States, followed by Canada, to encourage physicians and patients to discuss inappropriate tests, methods, and disease management This campaign has since been adopted by many health care providers in several countries [9]. In a study of one tertiary referral center in Saudi Arabia, Morris et al reported an increase in the demand for clinical laboratory services despite the fixed budget for such services [13] They suggested that the demands could be managed by three effective factors: strong medical leadership, coaching, and education [13]. The present study aimed to evaluate the demands for inappropriate laboratory testing by physicians in Saudi Arabia from a different direction, namely measuring the satisfaction of medical laboratory professionals toward testing requests

Methods

Results

Conclusion