Cost-effectiveness of laboratory testing.

OBJECTIVE To illustrate how laboratorians and pathologists must demonstrate accountability for efficiency (how well something is done), effectiveness (what is done), and cost-effectiveness (a proxy for value, in which value equals quality per cost). DATA SOURCES A literature search was conducted, including documents in the National Library of Medicine. STUDY SELECTION The literature on cost-effectiveness of laboratory testing was reviewed. CONCLUSIONS The demand for proving the value of newer and more expensive medical technologies, including newer medical tests, will increase substantially. Payers, including Medicare, commercial insurers, and employers, will demand accountability and elimination of the abuse and misuse of ineffective testing strategies. Pathologists and laboratorians play a key role in guiding the most cost-effective use of testing strategies, including the judicious use of algorithms.