Many Medical Tests Done For the Lawyers, Not the Patients

Occurring more frequently than even they realize, doctors order tests and medical procedures largely to protect themselves against potential lawsuits and to insulate themselves from liability. A study reported in JAMA Internal Medicine found 28% of orders and 13% of costs to be at least partially defensive. The survey was conducted at three institutions within one Massachusetts health system. Dr. Michael Rothberg, vice chair for research in the Medicine Institute of the Cleveland Clinic and lead author of a summary of the findings, said, “Some people might say it’s defensive, and other people might think it’s the standard of care. …many may not recognize (their tests and procedure orders) as being defensive.” Modern Healthcare