Laboratory Testing to Save Expenses

Abstract

To the Editor.— It is being widely stated that the new Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act/Diagnosis Related Groups laws and regulations will change the practice of clinical pathology greatly and may decimate it. The idea that it will change is valid, but the idea that will be decimated is not. Out of these governmental adversities have come outstanding opportunities. Under the new laws and regulations, hospital administration will direct its primary efforts toward rapid diagnosis and treatment and early discharge of patients to reduce the cost of hospitalization. The clinical pathologist sits in the best position ever to lead the medical staff and administration in best achieving such. The knowledgeable choice of laboratory tests and efficient management of laboratory operations can maximize the flow-through of patients in achieving appropriate diagnoses and treatment. Either before or immediately on admission, the patient should receive a broad profiling of laboratory tests appropriate