If you're a medical professional, your job may involve ordering or performing various medical tests. You must be cautious when doing so. If you order an unnecessary medical test, you may face disciplinary action that could put your professional license at risk.

Has this happened to you? The Lento Law Firm Professional License Defense Team can help if so. Learn more about the role experienced attorneys can play in your case by submitting your information through our online contact form or calling us at 888-535-3686.

How Common Are Unnecessary Medical Tests?

Unnecessary medical tests may be more common than some realize. According to research, as much as 40% to 60% of all medical tests in the U.S. may be unnecessary.

Some types of unnecessary medical tests are more common than others. Per the research, the most common unnecessary medical tests include:

• PT/PTT
• Chest x-rays
• Low extremity imaging tests
• CT head scans
• EEG
• Urine culture
• Blood culture

Some types of unnecessary medical tests may be relatively common because they're relatively easy to perform. If a particular test doesn't require a significant time or money investment, nor does it require access to resources a typical medical facility wouldn't have, medical professionals may be more inclined to order it when it's not entirely necessary.

The Potential Consequences of Unnecessary Tests for Patients

Patients may be upset when they discover medical professionals have ordered or performed unnecessary tests. At the very least, a patient might be angry they've had to pay for a medical test that wasn't needed.

However, it's important to understand that unnecessary tests don't just result in unnecessary bills. Depending on the nature of the test, an unnecessary medical test could result in various consequences for a patient. Examples include:

• Overtreatment
• Undergoing invasive procedures
• Discomfort
• Misdiagnosis
• Delayed diagnosis (which can lead to delayed treatment)

State boards and agencies responsible for licensing medical professionals have a duty to protect the public. Thus, when it appears a medical professional has put the public at risk by ordering or performing unnecessary tests, a licensing board may consider disciplinary action.

A state licensing board may also have to take disciplinary action if it appears a medical professional is ordering unnecessary tests to take advantage of patients financially. Unethical medical professionals may order tests they know aren't necessary because they wish to bill their patients for more services.

You Need a Proper Defense When Unnecessary Medical Test Accusations Threaten Your Professional License

The fact that a patient or other such party has filed a complaint accusing you of unnecessary medical tests doesn't always mean you're in the wrong. As a medical professional, it can be difficult to determine when a test is necessary. Sometimes, ordering seemingly “unnecessary” tests is actually just erring on the side of caution.

Regardless, you can't ignore the matter if an accusation related to unnecessary tests has put your professional license in jeopardy. At the Lento Law Firm, our Professional License Defense Team can help you protect your license and your career. Learn more by contacting us online or calling us at 888-535-3686 today.