News and briefs: Specialty groups ID 'wasteful' procedures

Nine medical specialty groups recently released their list of 45 tests and procedures commonly performed on patients that they deem unnecessary. The groups participated in the “Choose Wisely” campaign—each researching and submitting five tests and procedures considered overused.

Procedures on the lists include CT scans for low back pain and chest X-rays before surgery, according to a boston.com article. Physicians from the groups admit that these unnecessary tests are often performed to help generate revenue or to minimize the risk of being sued for medical malpractice. They hope this list will cut down on wasteful spending, and maximize patient safety by preventing unnecessary exposure to radiation in certain instances.

The complete “Choose Wisely” list includes information on when the tests and procedures are appropriate and widely used treatments to use instead of expensive or potentially harmful tests.

To read more, click here.