Medical Tests Worth Questioning: What You Really Need

As a healthcare system, a lot of money is spent on medical treatments or tests that may not be needed. This impacts individuals and families, leading to unnecessary waiting room time and lost money for the things that matter most (like presents!).

Clients often come in with ideas about their symptoms and expectations for treatment. As a health practitioner, my role is to break down concerns about serious issues found on Dr Google, using realistic differential diagnosis to recommend the best management plan. This could involve imaging, referral, or osteopathic treatment.

The question “Should I get it scanned?” is common. My answer is simple: what will it tell us? If it helps, definitely. If it changes the management plan or rules out a significant condition, then I may suggest it even before you consider it.

Main Culprits of Over-Testing

Investigations for Fatigue

Fatigue accounts for around 20% of GP visits in Australia. More than half of GPs reported they would order 6–10 individual tests (blood, thyroid, liver) for these patients. Often, young to middle-aged adults show no signs of serious illness, and lifestyle changes may be more appropriate than tests.

X-rays and Scans for Back Pain

About 80% of Australians will experience back pain. While painful, research shows that X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans do not speed recovery. They may sometimes reveal irrelevant issues, leading to more unnecessary investigations. Imaging is still important when “red flags” are present.

Vitamin D Tests

Testing may be needed for those with darker skin, modest clothing, older adults with osteoporosis, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and young children with risk factors. If none of these apply, moderate sun exposure may maintain adequate levels.

Medicine for Acid Reflux

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are often prescribed unnecessarily. Only severe or frequent acid reflux (2+ times per week over multiple weeks) typically requires medication. Long-term PPI use (>1 year) may increase risks of fractures, magnesium deficiency, and intestinal infection. Lifestyle interventions are key. For more on stress management affecting gut health, see How to Reduce Stress.

Antibiotics

The World Health Organization highlights antibiotic overuse as a major threat to human health due to bacterial resistance. Viral infections like colds or the flu do not warrant antibiotics.

Summary

Before rushing into medical tests or treatments, consider whether they will truly help your management plan. Often, lifestyle changes, careful observation, and osteopathic care may be more targeted and flexible.

Look after yourselves,

Evan

For more information, visit Choosing Wisely Australia. Thanks to ABC Health for inspiration and Dreamstime for the image.