Treatments That Bring Little Or No Benefit? Doctors Name 40 Common Treatments That Are Unnecessary

Just recently, the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AMRC) featured a list of 40 common treatments that are ineffective or unnecessary. This is in connection to the campaign that aims to lessen the number of medical treatments that bring little or no benefit to patients.

BBC reported that doctors from 11 specialties were asked to name five common treatments that were not valuable and necessary at times. The answers were used as part of the Choose Wisely campaign that stresses the need for doctors and patients to honestly discuss how health problems should be addressed.

According to Evening Standard, among the practices and treatments that bring little or no benefit are casts for wrist fractures, saline solution for cleaning wounds, and X-ray for those with lower back pain. The doctors also pointed out that women above 45 years old do not have to undergo blood tests to diagnose menopause and children with breathing problems can feel better without undergoing treatments. Furthermore, PSA Test for prostate cancer does not expand one's lifespan and can even cause unnecessary anxiety. The list including the 40 common treatments will be updated each year.

Meanwhile, AMRC chair Professor Dame Sue Bailey said 'over-medicalization' happens due to cases wherein patients pressure doctors into prescribing or performing unnecessary treatments. The academy stressed the importance of asking the key questions when seeking treatment. Patients should make sure if they really need certain tests and procedures if there are no risks and side effects if there are safer options, and what happens if no treatment is done.

Prof. Bailey likewise said that some of the treatments can be time-consuming and quite invasive and there are times when it is best to look for simpler options. She also emphasized the importance for both patients and doctors to question and make sure whether a particular treatment is necessary or not.

Undergoing treatments that bring little or no benefit is indeed a waste of effort and money. As for the 40 common treatments listed as ineffective or unnecessary, patients and doctors should take note of them and make sure not to resort to these procedures if not needed.