2013
DOI: 10.3399/bjgp13x665224
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Temporal growth and geographic variation in the use of laboratory tests by NHS general practices: using routine data to identify research priorities

Abstract: BackgroundLaboratory tests are extensively used for diagnosis and monitoring in UK primary care. Test usage by GPs, and associated costs, have grown substantially in recent years. AimThis study aimed to quantify temporal growth and geographic variation in utilisation of laboratory tests. Design and settingRetrospective cohort study using data from general practices in the UK. MethodData from the General Practice Research Database, including patient demographics, clinical details, and laboratory test results, w… Show more

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Cited by 38 publications
(50 citation statements)
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References 31 publications
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“… 1 , 2 Testing rates have since significantly increased: CRP testing in the UK rising by 85.8% between 2005 and 2009. 3 Large regional variations in testing rates have been noted, particularly with regard to PV. 3 This could reflect different regional policies, but may indicate that GPs are uncertain about the appropriate use of these tests.…”
Section: Introductionmentioning
confidence: 99%
See 1 more Smart Citation
“… 1 , 2 Testing rates have since significantly increased: CRP testing in the UK rising by 85.8% between 2005 and 2009. 3 Large regional variations in testing rates have been noted, particularly with regard to PV. 3 This could reflect different regional policies, but may indicate that GPs are uncertain about the appropriate use of these tests.…”
Section: Introductionmentioning
confidence: 99%
“… 3 Large regional variations in testing rates have been noted, particularly with regard to PV. 3 This could reflect different regional policies, but may indicate that GPs are uncertain about the appropriate use of these tests. There is also considerable inter-practice variation in GPs’ responses to abnormal inflammatory markers.…”
Section: Introductionmentioning
confidence: 99%
“…Similar studies of unplanned admissions, 70 diagnostic tests, 71 referral, prescription rates 72 and other process measures 45 will be useful in identifying other aspects of health care where uncertainty manifests through variation. We chose hospital procedures because there are a nationwide routine data set and a financial incentive for hospitals to document procedures.…”
Section: Unanswered Questions and Future Researchmentioning
confidence: 99%
“…Accurate diagnosis is fundamental to the provision of appropriate health care. The volume of diagnostic tests performed in the UK National Health Service (NHS) has increased dramatically in recent years due to technological innovation and an ageing population [ 1 ]. Doctors order diagnostic tests for a variety of reasons other than for making a diagnosis [ 2 ].…”
Section: Introductionmentioning
confidence: 99%