A study from the University of Michigan examined the diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy and found less expensive, more effective tests are used less than high-cost diagnostic treatments, according to a university news release.
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition in which the nerves that carry information to and from the brain don't work property. The condition occurs in 15 percent of those over age 40 and can lead to a tingling or burning sensation in the arms or legs. Diabetes is a common cause.
Researchers identified individuals with a diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy from the 1996-2007 Health and Retirement Study. Focusing on 15 relevant tests, they examined test usage six months before and after the initial diagnosis. They found almost one-quarter of patients underwent high-cost, low-yield MRIs while few received low-cost, high-yield glucose tolerance tests.
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Researchers identified individuals with a diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy from the 1996-2007 Health and Retirement Study. Focusing on 15 relevant tests, they examined test usage six months before and after the initial diagnosis. They found almost one-quarter of patients underwent high-cost, low-yield MRIs while few received low-cost, high-yield glucose tolerance tests.
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5 Ways to Boost Collections at Pain Management Centers
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10 Recent Research Findings on Pain Causes, Treatment and Education