Self ordered medical tests 'concerning and unnecessary': GPs

Doctors are raising concern about the rise of self ordered medical tests, as a new Australian study finds they have limited usefulness for consumers. If you are willing to pay, a range of medical tests can be ordered from private laboratories without a doctor's involvement - including full blood count, cholesterol, and tests for sexually transmitted diseases. These cost anywhere from $25 to $340. Dr Bryan Betty, chair of the General Practice New Zealand, says many family doctors have noticed the trend toward self-ordered tests, but caution that without expert interpretation, they can cause unnecessary anxiety, and potentially unnecessary medical procedures. A recent Australian study has found the benefits to most consumers are questionable. But the country's largest provider of private tests says it's all about empowering patients.