‘Large variation’ in GP use of cancer tests – study

Posed by models. Credit: Getty/monkeybusinessimages

By Olivia Bowthorpe

General practices vary substantially in their use of cancer investigations such as blood tests and imaging prior to diagnosis, new research has found.

The diagnostic process could be improved if investigations were carried out at a higher level at some practices, but over-testing may be taking place at others, according to Professor Gary Abel, deputy director of the Exeter Collaboration for Academic Primary Care, and colleagues.