Originally Posted by
springs
I still don't understand why some of you think you are going to be denied something, or have something taken away from you. In the worst case, if your insurer stops covering the test, you can still pay the $100 or so to have the test if you feel it's necessary. That's the cost of a new saddle or a headlight, or something similar most of us are already spending too much on ;-)
And what's this"herd level" thing? A study or data analysis whose conclusions you disagree with is "herd level"? Would you have described it as "herd level" if the conclusion was that PSA tests should be continued or expanded?
Sorry to use the jargon "herd level". That is common nomenclature when something affect the whole population. It isn't a matter of the outcome. It is a matter of the focus. Herd level vs. Individual.
The fact is that depending on one's personal financial status and health plan, or lack thereof, if a study convinces the policy makers to remove something from the approved list it becomes unavailable. Also, if a certain drug or test does not meet the manufacturer's profiit goals it becomes unavailable. Reduced use can bring that result.
To me the bottom line is that by and large tests are not to mechanically determine a course of action. They produce information for an intelligent analysis. It is that intelligent analysis and discussion between provider and patient that brings an acceptable course of action.
Too many, including some who have posted in this thread, appear to be unwilling to accept the ambiguity and the necessary patient participation that is today's reality.