A Cost-Effective Interdisciplinary Approach to Microbiologic Send-Out Test Use

Abstract

Context Use of reference laboratories for selected laboratory testing (send-out tests) represents a significant source of laboratory costs. As the use of more complex molecular analyses becomes common in the United States, strategies to reduce costs in the clinical laboratory must evolve in order to provide high-value, cost-effective medicine. Objective To report a strategy that employs clinical pathology house staff and key hospital clinicians in the effective use of microbiologic send-out testing. Design The George Washington University Hospital is a 370-bed academic hospital in Washington, DC. In 2012 all requisitions for microbiologic send-out tests were screened by the clinical pathology house staff prior to final dispensation. Tests with questionable utility were brought to the attention of ordering clinicians through the use of interdisciplinary rounds and direct face-to-face consultation. Results Screening resulted in a cancellation rate of 38% of send-out tests, with proportional cost savings. Nucleic acid tests represented most of the tests screened and the largest percentage of cost saved through screening. Following consultation, requested send-out tests were most often canceled because of a lack of clinical indication. Conclusions Direct face-to-face consultation with ordering physicians is an effective, interdisciplinary approach to managing the use of send-out testing in the microbiology laboratory.