A patient surrounded by floating lab results, symbolizing the rise in diagnostic testing.

Are You Getting Too Many Tests? The Rise of Diagnostic Testing and What It Means for Your Health

Rhea Morgan in Health & Wellness August 2025 • 4 min read.

"A new study reveals a dramatic increase in diagnostic tests ordered by GPs, raising questions about necessity and healthcare costs. Understanding the trend can empower you to be an informed patient."

Have you noticed an increase in the number of medical tests your doctor orders? You're not alone. A recent study published in The BMJ has revealed a significant rise in diagnostic testing ordered by general practitioners (GPs) over the past 15 years. This trend isn't just a minor uptick; it's a dramatic increase that's reshaping the landscape of healthcare.

The study, which analyzed data from the UK General Practices in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink, found that the number of diagnostic tests ordered by GPs has more than tripled since 2000. This surge raises important questions about the reasons behind this increase, the impact on healthcare costs, and, most importantly, what it means for your health.

In this article, we'll delve into the key findings of the study, explore the factors driving the rise in diagnostic testing, and provide you with the information you need to be a proactive and informed patient. Whether you're concerned about over-testing or simply curious about the changing face of healthcare, this guide will provide valuable insights and practical advice.

Why Are GPs Ordering So Many More Tests?

A patient surrounded by floating lab results, symbolizing the rise in diagnostic testing.

The study in The BMJ highlights a striking increase in diagnostic testing. Fifteen years ago, GPs ordered considerably fewer tests compared to today. Specifically, the number of tests has more than tripled, jumping from 14,869 to 49,267 per 10,000 person-years. This means that, on average, each patient now undergoes approximately five tests per year, a significant increase from the 1.5 tests per year recorded in 2000-1.

Several factors contribute to this surge in diagnostic testing. Here are some of the key drivers:

Aging Population: As the population ages, the prevalence of chronic diseases naturally increases. Older individuals often require more frequent monitoring and testing to manage their conditions effectively.
Increased Comorbidities: Comorbidities, the presence of multiple health conditions in a single patient, are becoming increasingly common. Managing these complex cases often necessitates a broader range of diagnostic tests to assess the interactions between different conditions and tailor treatment plans accordingly.
Shift from Secondary to Primary Care: Healthcare systems are increasingly shifting the management of certain conditions from hospitals (secondary care) to GPs (primary care). This transition places a greater responsibility on GPs to conduct diagnostic testing and monitor patients within the community setting.
Incentives and Guidelines: Initiatives like the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) in the UK incentivize GPs to use laboratory tests to monitor chronic diseases. While these programs aim to improve patient care, they can also contribute to increased testing rates.
Patient Expectations: Patients are becoming more informed and proactive about their health. They may request specific tests or screenings, leading to an increase in the overall demand for diagnostic services.

The study also noted that the increase was slightly greater in men (3.4-fold increase) compared to women (3.3-fold), and it was most pronounced in patients over 85 years (4.6-fold). This suggests that age and gender play a role in the patterns of diagnostic testing.

Empowering Yourself as a Patient

The rise in diagnostic testing presents both opportunities and challenges. While increased testing can lead to earlier detection and better management of certain conditions, it's crucial to be aware of the potential risks and costs associated with over-testing. By staying informed, asking questions, and partnering with your doctor, you can make the best decisions for your health and well-being.

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

What is the main finding of the study regarding diagnostic testing ordered by GPs?

The main finding of the study, published in *The BMJ*, reveals a significant rise in diagnostic testing ordered by General Practitioners (GPs). Specifically, the study showed the number of tests ordered has more than tripled since 2000. This dramatic increase highlights a major shift in how healthcare is delivered and presents important questions about the necessity of the tests, their impact on healthcare costs, and the implications for patient health.

What factors are contributing to the surge in diagnostic tests ordered by GPs?

Several factors contribute to the increased diagnostic testing by GPs. These include the aging population, which leads to a higher prevalence of chronic diseases and the need for more frequent monitoring. Increased comorbidities, or the presence of multiple health conditions in a single patient, also require a broader range of tests. The shift of care from secondary to primary care places a greater responsibility on GPs to conduct diagnostic testing. Additionally, incentives and guidelines, such as those from the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF), encourage the use of laboratory tests. Finally, increased patient expectations and requests for specific tests contribute to the rise in overall demand for diagnostic services.

How does the increase in diagnostic testing affect healthcare costs?

The increase in diagnostic testing significantly impacts healthcare costs. While the study does not explicitly quantify the monetary increase, it implicitly suggests that a higher volume of tests correlates to a higher overall cost for the healthcare system. Each test, from blood work to imaging, comes with associated expenses. The cumulative effect of these costs can be substantial, potentially diverting resources from other crucial areas of healthcare. As the number of tests ordered by GPs continues to rise, careful consideration is needed to balance the benefits of early detection with the financial burden on patients and healthcare systems.

What is the role of patient expectations in the rising number of tests ordered by GPs?

Patient expectations play a significant role in the increase of diagnostic tests ordered by General Practitioners (GPs). Modern patients are increasingly informed and proactive about their health. This awareness often leads them to request specific tests or screenings. The increasing demand for diagnostic services is, in part, fueled by these patient-driven requests, reflecting a shift towards patient empowerment and shared decision-making in healthcare. It is important for patients to understand both the benefits and potential drawbacks of diagnostic tests and discuss these with their GPs to make informed decisions.

How can individuals empower themselves as patients in the context of increasing diagnostic testing?

Individuals can empower themselves as patients by being proactive and informed about their health. This involves staying up-to-date with the latest health information, understanding the potential benefits and risks of diagnostic tests, and actively participating in discussions with their General Practitioners (GPs). Patients should ask questions about the necessity of each test, its potential implications, and alternative approaches. Being an active partner with their doctor can help patients make the best decisions for their health and well-being, ensuring they receive the appropriate level of care without unnecessary testing.