z-logo
open-access-imgOpen Access
Creating a novel strategy to reduce unnecessary laboratory testing based on healthcare cost analysis in high‐risk pregnancies and delivery ward
Author(s) -
Shirazi Mahboobeh,
Masoudian Yusuf,
Feizabad Elham,
Golshahi Fatemeh,
Ghaemi Marjan
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
journal of clinical laboratory analysis
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.536
H-Index - 50
eISSN - 1098-2825
pISSN - 0887-8013
DOI - 10.1002/jcla.23759
Subject(s) - medicine , obstetrics and gynaecology , psychological intervention , health care , healthcare delivery , emergency medicine , obstetrics , medical emergency , pregnancy , nursing , economics , genetics , biology , economic growth
Inappropriate request for laboratory tests is a challenging problem and an important cause for additional healthcare costs. Indeed, it may have further ambiguity for the clinicians. This study aimed to design an education‐based program to reduce unnecessary laboratory testing orders and the associated costs. Materials and methods In this interventional prospective study that took place in an educational hospital, the type and frequency of selected laboratory testing requested by gynecology, and obstetrics residents in the patients with gestational diabetes mellitus, preeclampsia, preterm labor, and premature preterm rupture of the membrane as well as cesarean section and normal vaginal delivery were analyzed periodically in a 1‐year interval. At the same time, continuous educational supports and monitoring were performed. The results were compared before and after interventions. Results The educational intervention regardless of the etiologies of the admission, decreased the requested laboratory testing significantly ( p  < 0.001), except for CBC. Indeed, no near misses or delays in treatment were observed. Cost analysis showed a 31.3% reduction of expenses per inpatient day due to the decrease in the number of daily laboratory testing ordered. Conclusions Appropriate education and continuous monitoring of the residents could reduce the unrequired laboratory testing as well as healthcare costs.

The content you want is available to Zendy users.

Already have an account? Click here to sign in.
Having issues? You can contact us here