Appropriate Test Utilization using Clinical Decision Support Systems
Despite this legal and regulatory structure in the United States, lab testing over utilization is still problematic.
Read MoreRace, Ethnicity, and Genetic Ancestry and Genetic Testing
To make carrier screening more equitable and scientifically accurate, clinicians should not rely upon a patient’s self-reported ethnicity, which may conflict with their true genetic ancestry.
Read MoreThyroid Testing Overutilization – Possible Solutions
Data suggests there is quite a bit of variability among providers regarding thyroid testing, and some may not follow ordering guidelines. Unnecessary lab testing in general, is a waste of precious time, resources, and can lead to patient harm.
Read MoreProcalcitonin
The overuse of antibiotics for nonbacterial infections, such as viral infections, can lead to antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria. Resistance can also develop when patients take antibiotics for too long a duration. Optimizing antibiotic use contributes to antimicrobial stewardship, which is treating the patient with right drug, dose, and duration.
Read MoreCOVID-19 and Mental Health
When the pandemic was declared in March of 2020, much of the focus was on mitigating the spread of COVID-19 and developing vaccines. Radical lockdowns and disruptions were created to slow the spread of the disease. However, these unprecedented responses have had a detrimental impact on mental health.
Read MoreSolutions to Redundant Laboratory Testing
It is estimated that about 20% of all lab testing ordered in the United States is unnecessary. Furthermore, some testing is even underutilized. These ordering errors may cause patient harm.
Read MoreHealthcare Effectiveness Data Information Set (HEDIS) – A Tool to Measure Patient Care and Clinical Efficiency
The data collected is not just used to measure and rate health plans; it allows healthcare providers to identify gaps in patient care so enhancements can be applied through quality improvement initiatives.
Read MoreCutting Edge Uses for Circulating Tumor DNA
Explore how Circulating Tumor DNA (ctDNA) technology is used to assess minimum residual disease and tumor mutation burden when treating a patient for cancer.
Read MoreImpact of COVID on Clinical Laboratories
Several labs saw a negative impact on testing volumes initially due to the downstream effect of cancelled or delayed medical procedures and appointments.
Read MoreThe History of Prenatal Screening
Technologies used in prenatal screening have rapidly expanded and increased in accuracy over the last several decades. The aim of this article is to review the history of prenatal screening and current technologies.
Read More