What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to define overdiagnosis and overtesting while providing guidance for navigating clinical encounters.

June 7, 2026

Overdiagnosis and overtesting.

Key Points

The aim is to define overdiagnosis and overtesting while providing guidance for navigating clinical encounters.
Defined overdiagnosis and overtesting terms
Highlighted examples in medical practice
Proposed a patient-centered approach for decision making.
Emphasized the prevalence and harm caused by overdiagnosis and overtesting.
Identified shared decision-making as a key strategy in managing patient care.
Recommended resources to assist general practitioners and patients.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Overdiagnosis and overtesting are recognised as prevalent in medical practice and can cause harm to patients. OBJECTIVE: This article seeks to define these terms, highlight some common examples and provide an approach to navigating clinical encounters where patients present for healthcare. DISCUSSION: A patient-centred and shared decision- making approach is the best way to balance risks and harms for individual patients when considering screening or diagnostic tests. There are useful resources available that are designed specifically for general practitioners and their patients to support making the best decision with an individual.

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