Laboratory utilization refers to the science of guiding clinical providers toward the most optimal set of laboratory tests that best answer the clinical questions they are looking to ask. It encompasses the practices and strategies aimed at ensuring that the right tests are ordered for the right patients at the right times, in an efficient and effective manner.
At BJC and Washington University, the focus on improving laboratory utilization is a vital part of the medical care we provide. In an era of rapidly expanding lab test catalogs and ever-advancing medical knowledge, maintaining optimal laboratory practices is key to upholding our reputation for excellence in patient care. By promoting proper test selection and reducing redundant or inappropriate testing, we can ensure that our healthcare professionals are equipped with the most relevant and precise data to guide clinical decision-making, without exposing our patients to the risks of unnecessary work-ups, treatments, or procedures driven by a falsely positive or misinterpreted result.
The content provided throughout this site is aimed to guide clinicians towards evidence-based, optimal laboratory test utilization in a clear, concise, and up-to-date manner. It is curated and reviewed by subject matter experts in the field, and routinely reassessed for its alignment with the most current set of best practices.