Explaining variations in test ordering in primary care: protocol for a realist review.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Studies have demonstrated the existence of significant variation in test-ordering patterns in both primary and secondary care, for a wide variety of tests and across many health systems. Inconsistent practice could be explained by differing degrees of underuse and overuse of tests for diagnosis or monitoring. Underuse of appropriate tests may result in delayed or missed diagnoses; overuse may be an early step that can trigger a cascade of unnecessary intervention, as well as being a source of harm in itself.

Methods and analysis

This realist review will seek to improve our understanding of how and why variation in laboratory test ordering comes about. A realist review is a theory-driven systematic review informed by a realist philosophy of science, seeking to pr

SUBMITTER: Duddy C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6144329 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature