Not Too Hot, Not Too Cold, but "Just Right". (November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hanson, Brian J; Shaukat, Aasma
• Is Part Of: American journal of gastroenterology. Volume 112:Number 11(2017)
• Publication Date: 2017-11
• Subjects: Stomach -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Intestines -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Gastroenterology -- Periodicals; Gastrointestinal Diseases -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 616.33
• DOI: 10.1038/ajg.2017.358
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0002-9270

Abstract

Abstract : Abstract: : When ordering diagnostic tests, physicians are faced with a problem of not too many tests, not too few, but 'just right'. However, in medical diagnostics 'just right' may be very difficult to identify. Such is the conundrum presented in study by Rubenstein and colleagues regarding appropriate use of repeat esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) in Veterans Health Administration (VHA) medical facilities. The important message of this paper is that out of 235, 855 patients with an index EGD, 36% underwent repeat EGD over 5 years, of which only 9% (range 3–18%a cross VHA facilities) were classified as probable overuse.