We recommended diagnostic tests not only for diagnosis but also to rule out other complications or differential diagnosis. However, sometimes a routine blood test or diagnostic imaging (like ultrasound) are recommended to rule out complication. Yesterday one patient came for consultation for acute stomach pain. After evaluating his symptoms I suggested doing abdominal ultrasonography.
However, the patient was reluctant and indicated that he would not afford and hence he would not go for the ultrasonography. After a lot of persuasions, he agreed to do so. This took me to following questions, How often do we know the costs of diagnostic tests?
