Doctor overwhelmed by an excessive number of test results, symbolizing the increase in medical testing.

Are You Getting Too Many Medical Tests? What's Behind the Rise in Diagnostic Procedures

Theo Raines in Health & Wellness August 2025 • 4 min read.

"A new study reveals a dramatic increase in diagnostic tests ordered by GPs. Is it better healthcare or are we over testing? Uncover the factors driving this trend and what it means for you."

The world of healthcare is constantly evolving, with new technologies and procedures emerging at a rapid pace. One significant shift has been the increasing reliance on diagnostic testing. A recent study published in The BMJ sheds light on this trend, revealing that General Practitioners (GPs) are now ordering a staggering three times as many diagnostic tests as they did 15 years ago. This dramatic increase raises important questions about the changing landscape of primary care and its impact on both patients and healthcare systems.

This rise in testing isn't just a marginal uptick; it's a seismic shift in how healthcare is delivered. The study, which utilized data from the UK General Practices in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink, paints a clear picture: between 2000 and 2016, the number of tests ordered by GPs has skyrocketed. But what's driving this surge in diagnostic procedures? Is it simply a reflection of improved access to healthcare, or are there other factors at play?

In this article, we'll delve into the key findings of the BMJ study, exploring the potential reasons behind the increase in diagnostic testing. We'll also examine the implications of this trend, considering both the benefits and the potential drawbacks of a healthcare system that is increasingly reliant on diagnostic procedures. Is more testing always better? Let's find out.

Why Are Doctors Ordering So Many More Tests?

Doctor overwhelmed by an excessive number of test results, symbolizing the increase in medical testing.

The BMJ study highlights a significant increase in the sheer volume of tests being ordered. Specifically, the number of tests ordered per 10,000 person years more than tripled, jumping from 14,869 to 49,267 between 2000 and 2016. To put that in perspective, the average patient now receives five tests a year, compared to just 1.5 tests annually 15 years ago. That translates to an annual increase of 8.5%!

Several factors could be contributing to this dramatic rise in testing. One key consideration is the changing demographics of the population. As people live longer, the prevalence of chronic diseases and comorbidities increases. This naturally leads to a greater need for diagnostic testing to monitor these conditions and ensure appropriate management.

Aging Population: As the population ages, the demand for healthcare services, including diagnostic tests, naturally increases. Older adults are more likely to experience chronic conditions that require regular monitoring.
Rise in Chronic Diseases: Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses are becoming more prevalent, necessitating more frequent testing to manage these conditions effectively.
Increased Access to Healthcare: More people have access to healthcare services than ever before, leading to a greater demand for diagnostic testing.

Another factor is the shift in healthcare delivery models. Over the study period, some services were transferred from secondary (hospital) to primary care settings. This means that GPs are now responsible for ordering some imaging tests that were previously handled by hospitals. Additionally, initiatives like the Quality and Outcomes Framework have incentivized GPs to use laboratory tests to monitor chronic diseases.

Striking the Right Balance: Are We Over testing?

The rise in diagnostic testing presents both opportunities and challenges. While increased testing can lead to earlier detection and better management of diseases, it also raises concerns about over testing and its potential consequences. Unnecessary tests can expose patients to radiation, cause anxiety, and lead to false-positive results, which can trigger further, more invasive procedures. It's crucial to strike a balance, ensuring that patients receive the tests they need without being subjected to unnecessary or harmful procedures.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

Everything You Need To Know

How has the frequency of diagnostic tests changed over time, and what specific data highlights this shift?

The frequency of diagnostic tests has seen a dramatic increase. Specifically, the study indicated that General Practitioners (GPs) are ordering three times as many diagnostic tests compared to 15 years ago. The data from the UK General Practices in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink shows the number of tests ordered per 10,000 person years increased from 14,869 to 49,267 between 2000 and 2016. Consequently, the average patient now undergoes five tests annually, a significant jump from 1.5 tests per year previously.

What are the primary factors contributing to the surge in diagnostic test orders by General Practitioners (GPs)?

Several factors are driving the increase in diagnostic test orders. Firstly, an aging population leads to a higher prevalence of chronic diseases and comorbidities, demanding more monitoring. Secondly, the rise in chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses, necessitates more frequent testing for effective management. Thirdly, increased access to healthcare services has also played a role, resulting in a greater demand for diagnostic testing. Another contributing factor is the shift in healthcare delivery models, where certain services have moved from secondary (hospital) to primary care settings.

In the context of healthcare, what are the potential benefits of increased diagnostic testing?

Increased diagnostic testing offers the potential for earlier disease detection and better disease management. Early detection allows for timely interventions and treatment, potentially improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Moreover, frequent testing enables healthcare providers to monitor the progression of diseases, adjust treatment plans, and prevent complications. However, while increased testing has benefits, it is important to consider potential drawbacks and find a balance.

What are the potential drawbacks and risks associated with an over-reliance on diagnostic testing?

Over-reliance on diagnostic testing may expose patients to unnecessary risks. Unnecessary tests can expose patients to radiation, which can lead to long-term health problems. Additionally, diagnostic tests can cause anxiety among patients, especially if they are unfamiliar with the procedures or results. Furthermore, over-testing can lead to false-positive results, which can trigger further, possibly invasive, procedures, leading to unnecessary stress and potential harm. It's essential to balance the benefits of testing with these potential drawbacks.

How does the shift of services from secondary to primary care, and initiatives like the Quality and Outcomes Framework influence the increase in diagnostic testing?

The transfer of some services from hospitals (secondary care) to General Practitioners (GPs) in primary care settings has increased the number of tests ordered by GPs. For instance, GPs are now ordering some imaging tests that were previously handled by hospitals. Additionally, initiatives like the Quality and Outcomes Framework, which provides incentives for GPs, have encouraged the use of laboratory tests to monitor chronic diseases. This shift has significantly contributed to the overall rise in the volume of diagnostic testing conducted in primary care settings.