Displaying Charges for Lab Tests at Order Entry Might Help Control Costs

Overuse of laboratory tests and diagnostic imaging contributes substantially to increasing healthcare costs. During the past decade, the number of tests ordered has approximately doubled. Two national campaigns — Choosing Wisely and High Value Care — are under way to address this issue and improve stewardship of our healthcare resources.

Researchers at a single tertiary hospital investigated whether displaying laboratory fees at the time of electronic order entry affects test-ordering behavior of providers. They randomly assigned 61 diagnostic laboratory tests to active (fee displayed) or control (fee not displayed) conditions. During the 6-month baseline period, no fees were shown. One year later, Medicare allowable fees were displayed for …