Commentary on intentional falsification of at-home pregnancy tests

Home pregnancy tests for iPLEDGE: ethically dealing with potential falsifications

“…An effective strategy would be to require photographs be submitted with the date and patient's name written on the test itself. 2,4,5 Physicians may request in-office testing or laboratory testing in patients in whom falsification is a concern. 5 Testing requirements of iPLEDGE have previously placed financial and logistical burdens on patients, leading to potential inequities in care.…”

“…2,4,5 Physicians may request in-office testing or laboratory testing in patients in whom falsification is a concern. 5 Testing requirements of iPLEDGE have previously placed financial and logistical burdens on patients, leading to potential inequities in care. Utilization of telemedicine has positively impacted access to isotretinoin, while also raising new patient safety issues.…”

“… 4 Reasons for falsification include convenience and avoiding further costs rather than patient’s desire to conceal pregnancy. 5 Falsification is unacceptable and reflects lack of understanding of potential consequences to an unborn fetus exposure to isotretinoin.…”

“…If circumstances force to require an in-person test and withdraw the patient’s right to a telemedicine visit, this might be viewed as a breach of justice as telemedicine aids in reducing health disparities. 5 However, the safety and health of a potential fetus take precedence.…”

“…An effective strategy would be to require photographs be submitted with the date and patient’s name written on the test itself. 2 , 4 , 5 Physicians may request in-office testing or laboratory testing in patients in whom falsification is a concern. 5 …”