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When it Comes to Ordering Tests…Ophthalmologists and Patients Should Choose Wisely

It has often been cited as a major reason for sky-rocketing medical costs in America – physicians ordering inappropriate or unecessary tests. The fact is, many of these tests or procedures may not only fail to protect patients, but they may actually cause harm to our system. It is not surprising that ophthalmologists may want to try to protect themselves from second-guessing, or even malpractice litigation, by going beyond what is reasonably necessary “just to be safe” or “because the patient requested it.” The better answer in most cases, is to work to improve physician-patient communication, so that the tests and procedures performed are limited to those that are truly, based on the ophthalmologist’s best judgment, good science, and the best interest of the patient.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology has joined with more than 20 other major medical societies to support the Choosing Wisely® Program. Learn more by visiting the resources below:

Academy’s Choosing Wisely® Page (including a video by Academy Executive VP and CEO David Parke, II, MD)
Choosing Wisely® Web Site
Five Things Physicians and Patients Should Question
Insurance Journal Article on Choosing Wisely®