Asking Better Questions Leads to Smarter Healthcare Choices
Welcome
Choosing Wisely is a national campaign to help you and your doctors have important conversations about your healthcare and the pros and cons of too much care — or too little care.
Consumer Reports and the ABIM Foundation, the creators of Choosing Wisely, are working to encourage clinicians and patients to engage in more conversations about options in tests, treatments and procedures. These conversations can help increase the quality of your healthcare and decrease harm that is sometimes caused by overuse of medical testing and treatments.
Consumer Reports has created more than one hundred patient-friendly, easy-to-read and medically accurate Choosing Wisely materials to educate you about what care is best for you at that particular time, and when you may want to hold back. It all starts with the Choosing Wisely 5 Questions, listed below – consider taking them with you and trying them out next time you see your doctor.
- Do I really need this test or procedure? Medical tests help you and your healthcare provider decide how to treat a problem. Medical procedures help to actually treat it.
- What are the risks? Will there be side effects? What are the chances of getting results that aren’t accurate? Could that lead to more testing or another procedure?
- Are there simpler, safer options? Sometimes all you need to do is make lifestyle changes, such as eating healthier foods or exercising more.
- What happens if I don’t do anything? Ask if your condition might get worse — or better — if you don’t have the test or procedure right away.
- How much does it cost? Ask if there are less expensive tests, treatments or procedures, what your insurance may cover, and about generic drugs instead of brand-name drugs.
Focus
Choosing Wisely aims to promote conversations between patients and providers by helping patients choose care that is:
- Supported by evidence
- Not duplicative of other tests or procedures already received
- Free from harm
- Truly necessary
To help patients engage their health care provider in these conversations and empower them to ask questions about what tests and procedures are right for them, Consumer Reports has developed patient-friendly materials based on medical specialty societies’ lists of recommendations.
As you will see in your further exploration of this website and other Choosing Wisely websites, the amount of material available for your review can be somewhat overwhelming. To help narrow your focus and provide a basic introduction to Choosing Wisely, the State of Rhode Island Department of Administration’s Office of Employee Benefits, the office which oversees operation of the state employee health plan, has chosen these materials.
Choosing Wisely Health Guides for Patients and Families
Welcome
Choosing Wisely helps doctors and patients together avoid needless and even harmful procedures.
The links at left will lead you through our collection of brochures.
Choosing Wisely: Tests
- Plain English: Allergy Tests
- Spanish: Pruebas para Alergias
- Webpage file: Allergy Tests →
- Webpage file: Pruebas para alergias →
- Plain English: Alzheimer’s Disease Testing (SNMMI)
- Spanish: Pruebas para la enfermedad de Alzheimer
- Webpage file: Testing for Alzheimer's Disease →
- Webpage file: Pruebas para la enfermedad de Alzheimer →
- Plain English: Blood Tests for Miscarriage Risk (SMFM)
- Spanish: Pruebas de sangre para mostrar el riesgo de un aborto espontáneo
- Webpage file: Blood Tests to Show Your Risk for Miscarriage →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de sangre para mostrar el riesgo de un aborto espontáneo →
- Plain English: Blood Tests in the Hospital (SHM)
- Spanish: Pruebas de sangre cuando usted está en el hospital
- Webpage file: Blood Tests When You’re in the Hospital →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de sangre cuando usted está en el hospital →
- English: Cancer Tests and Treatments (ASCO)
- Webpage file: Hard Decisions About Cancer Tests and Treatments →
- Plain English: Cervical Cancer Screening
- Spanish: Prueba de detección de cáncer cervical
- Plain English: Echocardiography for Heart Valve Disease
- Spanish: Ecocardiografía para valvulopatías cardíacas
- Webpage file: Echocardiography for Heart Valve Disease →
- Webpage file: Ecocardiografía para valvulopatías cardíacas →
- Plain English: EKGs and Exercise Stress Tests
- Spanish: Los electrocardiogramas (ECG) (EKG) y las pruebas de esfuerzo durante el ejercicio
- Webpage file: EKGs and Exercise Stress Tests →
- Webpage file: Los electrocardiogramas y las pruebas de esfuerzo durante el ejercicio →
- Plain English: Small Poster
- Plain English: Small Poster for Printing
- Plain English: Large Poster
- Plain English: Large Poster for Printing
- Spanish: Small Poster in Spanish
- Spanish: Small Poster in Spanish for Printing
- Spanish: Large Poster in Spanish
- Spanish: Large Poster in Spanish for Printing
- Webpage file: Five Questions to Ask About Medical Tests Before Surgery →
- Webpage file: 5 preguntas qué hacer sobre las pruebas médicas antes de una cirugía →
- Plain English: 5 Ways to be Smart About Ovarian Cancer (SGO)
- Spanish: 5 maneras de ser inteligente en cuanto al cáncer de ovario se refiere
- Webpage file: 5 Ways To Be Smart About Ovarian Cancer →
- Webpage file: 5 maneras de ser inteligente en cuanto al cáncer de ovario se refiere →
- Plain English: Health Checkups (SGIM)
- Spanish: Exámenes médicos
- Webpage file: Health Checkups →
- Webpage file: Exámenes médicos →
- Plain English: HIV: When You Need CD4 Tests
- Spanish: Virus de inmunodeficiencia humana (HIV)
- Plain English: Imaging and Blood Tests in Early Breast Cancer (ASCO)
- Spanish: Pruebas de marcadores tumorales y de imágenes para el cáncer de seno
- Webpage file: Imaging and Blood Tests in Early Breast Cancer →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de marcadores tumorales y de imágenes para el cáncer de seno →
- Plain English: Lab Tests Before Surgery (ASCP)
- Spanish: Pruebas de laboratorio antes de una cirugía
- Webpage file: Lab Tests Before Surgery →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de laboratorio antes de una cirugía →
- Plain English: Lyme Disease Tests (ACR)
- Spanish: Pruebas para la Enfermedad de Lyme
- Webpage file: Lyme Disease Tests →
- Webpage file: Pruebas para la enfermedad de Lyme →
- Plain English: Making Smart Decisions About Genetic Testing (ACMG)
- Spanish: Cómo tomar decisiones inteligentes sobre las pruebas genéticas
- Webpage file: Making Smart Decisions About Genetic Testing →
- Webpage file: Cómo tomar decisiones inteligentes sobre las pruebas genéticas →
- Plain English: Medical Tests Before Eye Surgery
- Spanish: Pruebas médicas antes de una cirugía de ojo
- Webpage file: Medical Tests Before Eye Surgery →
- Webpage file: Pruebas médicas antes de una cirugía de ojo →
- Plain English: Medical Tests Before Surgery - When You Need Them, and When You Don't
- Spanish: Pruebas médicas antes de una cirugía
- Webpage file: Medical Tests Before Surgery →
- Webpage file: Pruebas médicas antes de una cirugía →
- Plain English: Neck and Back Pain: When You Need Tests (AANEM)
- Spanish: Dolor de cuello y espalda
- Webpage file: Neck and Back Pain: When you Need Tests →
- Webpage file: Dolor de cuello y espalda: Cuándo se necesitan pruebas →
- Plain English: Pap Tests
- Spanish: Pruebas de Papanicolaou
- Webpage file: Pap Tests →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de Papanicolaou →
- Plain English: PSA Test for Prostate Cancer (AAFP)
- Spanish: La prueba de sangre PSA para detectar cáncer de próstata
- Webpage file: PSA Blood Test for Prostate Cancer →
- Webpage file: La prueba de sangre PSA para detectar cáncer de próstata →
- Plain English: PSA Tests for Prostate Cancer (AUA)
- Spanish: Las pruebas de sangre del antígeno prostático específico o PSA para el cáncer de próstata
- Webpage file: PSA Tests for Prostate Cancer →
- Webpage file: Las pruebas de sangre del antígeno prostático específico o PSA para el cáncer de próstata →
- Plain English: Screening Tests for Ovarian Cancer (SGO)
- Spanish: Exámenes de detección para el cáncer de ovario
- Webpage file: Screening Tests for Ovarian Cancer →
- Webpage file: Exámenes de detección para el cáncer de ovario →
- Plain English: Screening Tests: When You Need Them, When You Don't
- Spanish: Pruebas de detección
- Webpage file: Screening Tests: When you Need Them — and When you Don’t →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de detección →
- Plain English: Spirometry for Asthma
- Spanish: Espirometría para el asma
- Webpage file: Spirometry for Asthma →
- Plain English: Stress Tests After a Stent Procedure (SCAI)
- Spanish: Pruebas de esfuerzo después de un procedimiento de endoprótesis o colocación de stent
- Webpage file: Stress Tests After a Stent Procedure →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de esfuerzo después de un procedimiento de endoprótesis o colocación de stent →
- Plain English: Stress Tests Before Surgery
- Spanish: Pruebas de esfuerzo del corazón antes de una cirugía
- Webpage file: Heart Stress Tests Before Surgery →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de esfuerzo del corazón antes de una cirugía →
- English: Stress Tests for Chest Pain (ASNC)
- Webpage file: Stress Tests for Chest Pain →
- Plain English: Testing after heart procedures
- Spanish: Pruebas después de procedimientos cardíacos
- Webpage file: Testing After Heart Procedures →
- Webpage file: Pruebas después de procedimientos cardíacos →
- Plain English: Tests Before Heart Surgery (STS)
- Spanish: Pruebas antes de una cirugía del corazón
- Webpage file: Tests Before Heart Surgery →
- Webpage file: Pruebas antes de una cirugía del corazón →
- Plain English: Urinary Tract Infections in Older People (AGS, AMDA)
- Spanish: Pruebas y tratamientos para infecciones de las vías urinarias (UTI) en personas mayores
- Webpage file: Urinary Tract Infections in Older People →
- Webpage file: Pruebas y tratamientos para infecciones de las vías urinarias (UTI) en personas mayores →
- Plain English: Vitamin D Tests
- Spanish: Pruebas de Vitamina D
- Webpage file: Vitamin D Tests →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de Vitamina D →
Allergy Tests (AAAAI)
If you don’t have symptoms or a medical evaluation that points to allergy, think twice about skin or blood tests.
Alzheimer’s Disease Testing (SNMMI)
If you're having memory problems, your doctor should look for other causes before ordering a brain scan.
Blood Tests for Miscarriage Risk (SMFM)
Blood tests for thrombophilia often are not needed, even if you have had a pregnancy problem.
Blood Tests in the Hospital (SHM)
In the hospital, if your blood test results stay the same after a day or two, you may not need them again.
Cancer Tests and Treatments (ASCO)
Some tests, treatments, and procedures are not only unnecessary, they can even prove harmful.
Cervical Cancer Screening (ASCCP)
Young women with an abnormal Pap test don’t always need to be treated right away.
Echocardiography for Heart Valve Disease (ACC)
When do you need an echocardiogram?
EKGs and Exercise Stress Tests (AAFP)
EKGs or exercise stress tests usually aren't necessary for people without symptoms.
Five Questions to Ask About Medical Tests Before Surgery (posters)
Talk to your doctor to make sure you end up with the right pre-op tests.
Five Ways to be Smart About Ovarian Cancer (posters)
What you need to know about ovarian cancer prevention, risks, symptoms and testing.
Health Checkups (SGIM)
You probably don't need that yearly checkup. In fact, it can do more harm than good.
HIV: When You Need CD4 Tests (HIVMA)
If your treatment for HIV is working well, you usually need the CD4 count less often, if at all. Here’s why.
Imaging and Blood Tests in Early Breast Cancer (ASCO)
When do cancer experts recommend imaging tests and tumor marker tests?
Lab Tests Before Surgery (ASCP)
Most healthy people don't need blood or urine tests done before surgery, especially low-risk surgery. Here's why.
Lyme Disease Tests (ACR)
There are two blood tests for Lyme disease, but usually you don't need them. Here's why.
Making Smart Decisions About Genetic Testing (ACMG)
Sometimes a genetic test is not the best way to find an inherited condition or disease risk.
Medical Tests Before Eye Surgery (AAO)
Most people don't need to have their blood tested or their heart checked before they have eye surgery. Here's why.
Medical Tests Before Surgery
Often, pre-operative tests are not necessary. It is not a good idea to get them just because you’re having surgery.
Neck and Back Pain: When You Need Tests (AANEM)
If the symptoms are severe or continue for a while, you may need an electrodiagnostic test.
Pap Tests (AAFP)
Many teenage girls and some women have the test when they don’t need it. Here’s why.
PSA Test for Prostate Cancer (AAFP)
The PSA screening test is widely used, but often is not needed.
PSA Tests for Prostate Cancer (AUA)
The PSA test is the only available screening test for prostate cancer, but it can have serious risks.
Screening Tests for Ovarian Cancer (SGO)
Ultrasound and the CA-125 blood test are not useful for screening low-risk women for ovarian cancer.
Screening Tests: When You Need Them, When You Don’t
It’s important to know which tests you need, and how often you need them.
Spirometry for Asthma (AAAAI)
Many people who need the test don’t receive it.
Stress Tests After a Stent Procedure (SCAI)
Stress tests usually aren’t helpful after a stent procedure, unless you have symptoms of heart disease.
Stress Tests Before Surgery (SVM)
If you’re having surgery, you will probably not need a heart stress test beforehand if you are healthy, active, and feeling well, or if you’re having minor surgery.
Stress Tests for Chest Pain (ASNC)
If you’re at low risk for having a heart problem, even if you have symptoms, you usually don’t need this imaging test.
Testing After Heart Procedures (ASNC)
Unless you're experiencing symptoms, this test usually isn't helpful in the first few years after heart bypass surgery or a stent procedure.
Tests Before Heart Surgery (STS)
Before heart surgery, you probably don't need a breathing test or carotid ultrasound test, unless you have breathing problems or symptoms.
Urinary Tract Infections in Older People (AGS, AMDA)
Older adults are often tested for UTIs. But if you don’t have symptoms, the tests are not very useful.
Vitamin D Tests (ASCP)
Doctors often order a blood test to measure your vitamin D, but the results are unlikely to change their advice.
Choosing Wisely: Imaging
- Plain English: Bone-Density Tests
- Spanish: Pruebas de Densidad de los Huesos
- Webpage file: Bone Density Tests →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de Densidad de los Huesos →
- Plain English: Brain Scans for Head Injuries
- Spanish: Las tomografías del cerebro para las lesiones de la cabeza
- Webpage file: Brain Scans for Head Injuries →
- Webpage file: Las tomografías del cerebro para las lesiones de la cabeza →
- English: Cardiac Imaging Stress Tests(ASNC)
- Webpage file: Cardiac Imaging Stress Tests →
- Plain English: Chest X-rays Before Surgery
- Spanish: Radiografía del tórax antes de una cirugía
- Video: Do You Need a Chest X-ray Before Surgery?
- Webpage file: Chest X-rays Before Surgery →
- Webpage file: Radiografía del tórax antes de una cirugía →
- Plain English: Clogged Neck Arteries (AAFP)
- Spanish: Arterias del cuello obstruidas
- Webpage file: Clogged Neck Arteries →
- Webpage file: Arterias del cuello obstruidas →
- Plain English: CMR Tests for Chest Pain and Cardiac Screening (SCMR)
- Spanish: Pruebas de CMR para el dolor de pecho y examen cardíaco
- Webpage file: CMR Tests for Chest Pain and Cardiac Screening →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de CMR para el dolor de pecho y examen cardíaco →
- Plain English: CT Scans for Children With Head Injuries (AAP)
- Spanish: Tomografías (CT scans) para niños con lesiones en la cabeza
- Webpage file: CT Scans for Children With Head Injuries →
- Webpage file: Tomografías (CT scans) para niños con lesiones en la cabeza →
- Plain English: CT Scans in the Emergency Department
- Plain English: CT Scans in the Emergency Department (for printer)
- Spanish: CT scans en el departamento de emergencias
- Spanish: CT scans en el departamento de emergencias (for printer)
- Plain English: CT Scans to Find Lung Cancer in Smokers (CHEST/ATS)
- Spanish: Tomografías (CT scans) para detectar cáncer de pulmón en fumadores
- Webpage file: CT Scans to Find Lung Cancer in Smokers →
- Webpage file: Tomografías (CT scans) para detectar cáncer de pulmón en fumadores →
- Plain English: Do You Need a CT Scan for a Head Injury?
- Plain English: Do You Need a CT Scan for a Head Injury? (for printer)
- Spanish: ¿Necesita una tomografía computarizada (CT scan) por una lesión en la cabeza?
- Spanish: ¿Necesita una tomografía computarizada (CT scan) por una lesión en la cabeza? (for printer)
- Plain English: Echocardiogram Before Surgery (ASE)
- Spanish: Un ecocardiograma antes de una cirugía
- Webpage file: Echocardiogram Before Surgery →
- Webpage file: Un ecocardiograma antes de una cirugía →
- Plain English: Echocardiography After Valve Surgery (STS)
- Spanish: Un ecocardiograma después de una cirugía para reemplazar una válvula cardíaca
- Webpage file: Echocardiography After Valve Surgery →
- Webpage file: Un ecocardiograma después de una cirugía para reemplazar una válvula cardíaca →
- Plain English: Echocardiography for Heart Valve Disease
- Spanish: Ecocardiografía para valvulopatías cardíacas
- Webpage file: Echocardiography for Heart Valve Disease →
- Webpage file: Ecocardiografía para valvulopatías cardíacas →
- Plain English: Five Ways to be Smart About Back Pain
- Plain English: Five Ways to be Smart About Back Pain (for printer)
- Spanish: 5 maneras de manejar el dolor de la espalda baja sabiamente
- Spanish: 5 maneras de manejar el dolor de la espalda baja sabiamente (for printer)
- Plain English: Five Ways to be Smart About Back Pain
- Plain English: Five Ways to be Smart About Back Pain (for printer)
- Spanish: 5 maneras de manejar el dolor de la espalda baja sabiamente
- Spanish: 5 maneras de manejar el dolor de la espalda baja sabiamente (for printer)
- Webpage file: 5 maneras de manejar el dolor de la espalda baja sabiamente →
- Webpage file: Five Ways to be Smart About Back Pain →
- Plain English: Heart Imaging Before Surgery
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes del corazón antes de una cirugía
- Webpage file: Heart Imaging Before Surgery →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de imágenes del corazón antes de una cirugía →
- Plain English: Heart imaging tests before surgery
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes del corazón antes de una cirugía
- Webpage file: Heart Imaging Tests Before Surgery →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de imágenes del corazón antes de una cirugía →
- Plain English: Heart Stress Tests Before Chest Surgery (STS)
- Spanish: Pruebas de esfuerzo del corazón antes de una cirugía de tórax
- Webpage file: Heart Stress Tests Before Chest Surgery →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de esfuerzo del corazón antes de una cirugía de tórax →
- Plain English: Imaging and Blood Tests in Early Breast Cancer (ASCO)
- Spanish: Pruebas de marcadores tumorales y de imágenes para el cáncer de seno
- Webpage file: Imaging and Blood Tests in Early Breast Cancer →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de marcadores tumorales y de imágenes para el cáncer de seno →
- Plain English: Imaging for Headaches
- Plain English: Imaging for Headaches (for printer)
- Spanish: Pruebas de imagen por dolores de cabeza
- Spanish: Pruebas de imagen por dolores de cabeza (for printer)
- Webpage file: Pruebas de imagen por dolores de cabeza →
- Webpage file: Imaging for Headaches →
- Plain English: Imaging for Hearing Problems
- Spanish: Problemas auditivos
- Plain English: Imaging Tests After a Heart Procedure (ACC)
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes después de un procedimiento cardíaco
- Webpage file: Imaging Tests After a Heart Procedure →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de imágenes después de un procedimiento cardíaco →
- Plain English: Imaging Tests for Back Pain
- Spanish: Pruebas radiológicas debido a dolor en la parte baja de la espalda
- Webpage file: Imaging Tests for Lower-Back Pain →
- Webpage file: Pruebas radiológicas debido a dolor en la parte baja de la espalda →
- Plain English: Imaging Tests for Early Prostate Cancer (ASCO)
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes para el cáncer de próstata en su etapa temprana
- Webpage file: Imaging Tests for Early Prostate Cancer →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de imágenes para el cáncer de próstata en su etapa temprana →
- Plain English: Imaging Tests for Headaches (ACR)
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes para dolores de cabeza
- Webpage file: Imaging Tests for Headaches →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de Imágenes para dolores de cabeza →
- Plain English: Imaging Tests for Heart Disease
- Spanish: Pruebas de Imágenes para la enfermedad cardíaca
- Webpage file: Imaging Tests for Heart Disease →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de Imágenes para la enfermedad cardíaca →
- Plain English: Imaging Tests for Ovarian Cysts
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes para quistes ováricos
- Webpage file: Imaging Tests for Ovarian Cysts →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de imágenes para quistes ováricos →
- Plain English: Does your lower back hurt?
- Plain English: Does your lower back hurt? (For printer)
- Spanish: ¿Le duele la parte baja de la espalda?
- Spanish: ¿Le duele la parte baja de la espalda? (For printer)
- Webpage file: Does your lower back hurt? →
- Webpage file: ¿Le duele la parte baja de la espalda? →
- Plain English: PET Scans After Cancer Treatment (ASCO)
- Spanish: Tomografías (PET scans) después del tratamiento contra el cáncer
- Webpage file: PET Scans After Cancer Treatment →
- Webpage file: Tomografías (PET scans) después del tratamiento contra el cáncer →
- Plain English: Screening Tests for Brain Aneurysms
- Spanish: Pruebas de detección para aneurismas cerebrales
- Webpage file: Screening Tests for Brain Aneurysms →
- Webpage file: Pruebas de detección para aneurismas cerebrales →
- Plain English: When You Need a CT Scan to Check for a Blood Clot in Your Lungs
- Plain English: When You Need a CT Scan to Check for a Blood Clot in Your Lungs (for printer)
- Spanish: Cuándo necesita una CT scan para saber si tiene un coágulo en los pulmones
- Spanish: Cuándo necesita una CT scan para saber si tiene un coágulo en los pulmones (for printer)
- Plain English: Whole-Body Scans to Screen for Cancer (ACPM)
- Spanish: Tomografías de todo el cuerpo para detectar cáncer
- Webpage file: Whole-Body Scans to Screen for Cancer →
- Webpage file: Tomografías de todo el cuerpo para detectar cáncer →
- Plain English: Why the Doctor May Not Order a CT Scan for Kidney Stones
- Plain English: Why the Doctor May Not Order a CT Scan for Kidney Stones (for printer)
- Spanish: Por qué el médico podría decidir no hacerle una CT scan para saber si tiene piedras en el riñón
- Spanish: Por qué el médico podría decidir no hacerle una CT scan para saber si tiene piedras en el riñón (for printer)
Bone-Density Tests (AAFP)
If you’re not at higher risk for weak bones, you should think twice about the bone-density test. Here’s why.
Brain Scans for Head Injuries (AMSSM)
Brain scans are usually not helpful for a concussion.
Cardiac Imaging Stress Tests (ASNC)
In some cases, especially in healthy people without chest pain, you should be cautious about the tests.
Chest X-rays Before Surgery (ACR)
If you don’t have signs or symptoms of heart or lung disease, think twice about having a pre-operative X-ray.
Clogged Neck Arteries (AAFP)
Do you need a screening test for clogged neck arteries?
CMR Tests for Chest Pain and Cardiac Screening (SCMR)
CMR is an imaging test for heart disease. But it may not be the best test for you.
CT Scans for Children With Head Injuries (AAP)
For children with head injuries, a CT scan often is not needed.
CT Scans in the Emergency Department (ACEP)
They may not be needed as often as you think.
CT Scans to Find Lung Cancer in Smokers (CHEST/ATS)
The CT scan, used to look for early signs of lung cancer, is not useful for many smokers.
Do You Need a CT Scan for a Head Injury? (ACEP)
A health history and physical exam can help the doctor decide if you need a Computerized Tomography (CT) scan.
Echocardiogram Before Surgery (ASE)
If you’re having surgery, you may wonder if you need an echocardiogram first.
Echocardiography After Valve Surgery (STS)
Sometimes the echocardiogram imaging test is done very soon after heart valve surgery, while you are still in the hospital. Usually that's not useful.
Echocardiography for Heart Valve Disease (ACC)
When do you need an echocardiogram?
Five Ways to be Smart About Back Pain (large poster)
Don’t rush to MRIs, CT scans or X-rays for back pain.
Five Ways to be Smart About Back Pain (small poster)
Don’t rush to MRIs, CT scans or X-rays for back pain.
Heart Imaging Before Surgery (ACC)
If you’re having surgery, you may wonder if you need a heart imaging test first to make sure it is safe.
Heart Imaging Tests Before Surgery (ASNC)
If you don't have heart problems, you probably don't need a heart test before an operation.
Heart Stress Tests Before Chest Surgery (STS)
Stress tests usually aren’t helpful if you don’t have heart problems.
Imaging and Blood Tests in Early Breast Cancer (ASCO)
When do cancer experts recommend imaging tests and tumor marker tests?
Imaging for Headaches (rack card)
Imaging tests usually don’t show why you’re having headaches, and they won’t ease your pain.
Imaging for Hearing Problems (AAO-HNSF)
For tinnitus or sudden hearing loss, imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs can be unnecessary, costly, or even harmful.
Imaging Tests After a Heart Procedure (ACC)
If you’ve had bypass surgery or a stent inserted to open a blocked artery, do you need regular imaging tests?
Imaging Tests for Back Pain (AAFP)
It seems like getting an X-ray, CT scan or MRI to find the cause would be a good idea.
Imaging Tests for Early Prostate Cancer (ASCO)
It's not always a good idea to get all the tests that are available. You may not need them.
Imaging Tests for Headaches (ACR)
Many with severe headaches want a CT scan or MRI to see if they have a tumor or other serious problem.
Imaging Tests for Heart Disease (ACC)
If you are a healthy person without symptoms, you should think twice about having these tests.
Imaging Tests for Ovarian Cysts (ACR)
Repetitive ultrasound exams may not be necessary.
Lower Back Pain (rack card)
Does your lower back hurt? You probably don’t need an MRI, CT scan, or X-ray.
PET Scans After Cancer Treatment (ASCO)
If you've been treated for cancer, you may not need PET scans to check for a return of the cancer.
Screening Tests for Brain Aneurysms (AANS)
Screening healthy people for weak areas in the brain's blood vessels can do more harm than good.
When You Need a CT Scan to Check for a Blood Clot in Your Lungs (ACEP)
If you have most of the signs and risk factors for a blood clot in your lungs, it may be wise to have a CT scan. If not, you may receive a D-dimer blood test first.
Whole-Body Scans to Screen for Cancer (ACPM)
No medical society recommends whole-body scans. There is no evidence that they are a good screening tool.
Why the Doctor May Not Order a CT Scan for Kidney Stones (ACEP)
For most people, a urine test, blood test and health history are all that's needed to diagnose kidney stones.
Choosing Wisely: Drugs
- Plain English: Antibiotic Treatment in the Hospital (SHEA)
- Spanish: Tratamiento antibiótico en el hospital
- Webpage file: Antibiotic Treatment in the Hospital →
- Webpage file: Tratamiento antibiótico en el hospital →
- Plain English: Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before You Take Antibiotics
- Plain English: Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before You Take Antibiotics (for printer)
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacer a tu médico antes de tomar antibióticos
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacer a tu médico antes de tomar antibióticos (for printer)
- Webpage file: Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before You Take Antibiotics →
- Webpage file: 5 preguntas para hacer a tu médico antes de tomar antibióticos →
- Plain English: Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before You Take Antibiotics
- Plain English: Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before You Take Antibiotics (for printer)
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacer a tu médico antes de tomar antibióticos
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacer a tu médico antes de tomar antibióticos (for printer)
- Webpage file: 5 preguntas para hacer a tu médico antes de tomar antibióticos →
- Webpage file: Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before You Take Antibiotics →
- Plain English: Antibiotics for Ear Infections in Children (AAFP)
- Spanish: Antibióticos para infecciones del oído en niños
- Webpage file: Antibiotics for Ear Infections in Children →
- Webpage file: Antibióticos para infecciones del oído en niños →
- Plain English: Antibiotics for People With Catheters (AUA)
- Spanish: Antibióticos para personas con sondas
- Webpage file: Antibiotics for People With Catheters →
- Webpage file: Antibióticos para personas con sondas →
- Plain English: Antibiotics for Pink Eye (AAO)
- Spanish: Antibióticos para la conjuntivitis
- Webpage file: Antibiotics For Pink Eye (AAO) →
- Webpage file: Antibióticos para la conjuntivitis →
- Plain English: Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Adults
- Spanish: Resfriados, influenza y otras enfermedades respiratorias en adultos
- Webpage file: Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Adults →
- Webpage file: Resfriados, influenza y otras enfermedades respiratorias en adultos →
- Plain English: Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Children (AAP)
- Spanish: Antibióticos para garganta irritada, tos o nariz tapada
- Webpage file: Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Children (AAP) →
- Webpage file: Antibióticos para garganta irritada, tos o nariz tapada →
- Plain English: Antibiotics for Urinary Tract Infections in Older People (AGS)
- Spanish: Antibióticos para las infecciones de las vías urinarias en personas mayores
- Webpage file: Antibiotics for Urinary Tract Infections in Older People →
- Webpage file: Antibióticos para las infecciones de las vías urinarias en personas mayores →
- Plain English: Antibiotics For Your Skin
- Plain English: Antibiotics For Your Skin (for printer)
- Spanish: Antibióticos para la piel
- Spanish: Antibióticos para la piel (for printer)
- Webpage file: Antibiotics for Your Skin →
- Webpage file: Antibióticos para la piel →
- Plain English: Antibiotics: When You Need Them and When You Don't
- Plain English: Antibiotics: When You Need Them and When You Don't (Complete Package)
- Spanish: Antibióticos: Cuándo se necesitan y cuándo no
- Webpage file: Antibiotics →
- Webpage file: Antibióticos: Cuándo se necesitan y cuándo no →
- Plain English: Antibiotics: Will They Help You or Hurt You?
- Plain English: Antibiotics: Will They Help You or Hurt You? (For offset printing)
- Spanish: Antibióticos: ¿Te ayudarán o te harán daño?
- Spanish: Antibióticos: ¿Te ayudarán o te harán daño? (For offset printing)
- Plain English: Treating disruptive behavior in people with dementia
- Spanish: Tratamiento del comportamiento problemático en personas con demencia
- Webpage file: Treating Disruptive Behavior in People with Dementia →
- Webpage file: Tratamiento del comportamiento problemático en personas con demencia →
- Plain English: Avoid Opioids for Most Long-Term Pain
- Plain English: Avoid Opioids for Most Long-Term Pain (for printer)
- Spanish: Evite los opioides contra casi todos los dolores de larga duración
- Spanish: Evite los opioides contra casi todos los dolores de larga duración (for printer)
- Webpage file: Avoid Opioids for Most Long-Term Pain →
- Webpage file: Evite los opioides contra casi todos los dolores de larga duración →
- Plain English: Cholesterol Drugs for People Over 75 (AMDA)
- Spanish: Medicamentos para el colesterol para personas mayores de 75 años
- Webpage file: Cholesterol Drugs for People Over 75 →
- Webpage file: Medicamentos para el colesterol para personas mayores de 75 años →
- Video: Choosing Wisely: Antibiotics
- Video: Choosing Wisely: Antibiotics (subtitled)
- Video: Cómo Elegir Sabiamente: Antibióticos
- Video: Cómo Elegir Sabiamente: Antibióticos (subtitled)
- Plain English: Diabetes Tests and Treatments
- Plain English: Diabetes Tests and Treatments (for printer)
- Spanish: Pruebas y tratamientos para la diabetes
- Spanish: Pruebas y tratamientos para la diabetes (for printer)
- Plain English: Dietary Supplements to Prevent Heart Disease or Cancer (ACPM)
- Spanish: Suplementos dietéticos para prevenir la enfermedad cardíaca o el cáncer
- Webpage file: Dietary Supplements to Prevent Heart Disease or Cancer →
- Webpage file: Suplementos dietéticos para prevenir la enfermedad cardíaca o el cáncer →
- Plain English: Drugs for Migraine Headaches
- Spanish: Tratamiento de migrañas
- Webpage file: Treating Migraine Headaches →
- Webpage file: Tratamiento de migrañas →
- Plain English: Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Spanish: Cómo tratar la artritis reumatoide
- Webpage file: Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis →
- Webpage file: Cómo tratar la artritis reumatoide →
- Plain English: Drugs to Prevent Infection During Chemotherapy (ASCO)
- Spanish: Medicamentos para aumentar los glóbulos blancos en pacientes con cáncer que reciben quimioterapia
- Webpage file: Drugs to Prevent Infection During Chemotherapy →
- Webpage file: Medicamentos para aumentar los glóbulos blancos en pacientes con cáncer que reciben quimioterapia →
- Plain English: 5 Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before You Take Antibiotics
- Plain English: 5 Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before You Take Antibiotics (For Printer)
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos (For Printer)
- Plain English: 5 Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before You Take Antibiotics
- Plain English: 5 Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before You Take Antibiotics (For Printer)
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos (For Printer)
- Webpage file: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos →
- Webpage file: 5 Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before You Take Antibiotics →
- Plain English: Medicines to Relieve Chronic Pain (ASA)
- Spanish: Medicinas para aliviar el dolor crónico
- Webpage file: Medicines to Relieve Chronic Pain →
- Webpage file: Medicinas para aliviar el dolor crónico →
- Plain English: Medicines to Treat Cancer (ASCO)
- Spanish: Medicinas para tratar el cáncer
- Webpage file: Medicines to Treat Cancer →
- Webpage file: Medicinas para tratar el cáncer →
- Plain English: Opioids for Pain
- Plain English: Opioids for Pain (for printer)
- Spanish: ¿Tienes dolor constante que no es por cáncer o una enfermedad terminal?
- Spanish: ¿Tienes dolor constante que no es por cáncer o una enfermedad terminal? (for printer)
- Webpage file: Opioids for Pain →
- Webpage file: ¿Tienes dolor constante que no es por cáncer o una enfermedad terminal? →
- Plain English: Oral Antibiotics for Ear Infections (AAO-HNSF)
- Spanish: Antibióticos orales para las infecciones del oído
- Webpage file: Oral Antibiotics for Ear Infections →
- Webpage file: Antibióticos orales para las infecciones del oído →
- Plain English: Painkiller Choices With Kidney or Heart Problems (ASN)
- Spanish: Medicinas para el dolor
- Webpage file: Painkiller Choices With Kidney or Heart Problems →
- Webpage file: Medicinas para el dolor →
- Plain English: Preventing Seizures After an Ischemic Stroke (AANS, CNS)
- Spanish: Prevención de convulsiones después de un ataque cerebral isquémico
- Webpage file: Preventing Seizures After an Ischemic Stroke →
- Webpage file: Prevención de convulsiones después de un ataque cerebral isquémico →
- Plain English: Sleeping Pills for Children With Insomnia (AASM)
- Spanish: Evite dar somníferos a los niños con insomnio
- Webpage file: Sleeping Pills for Children With Insomnia →
- Webpage file: Evite dar somníferos a los niños con insomnio →
- Plain English: Sleeping Pills for Insomnia (AASM)
- Spanish: Las pastillas para dormir para el insomnio
- Webpage file: Sleeping Pills for Insomnia →
- Webpage file: Las pastillas para dormir para el insomnio →
- Plain English: Sleeping Pills for Insomnia and Anxiety in Older People
- Spanish: Insomnio y ansiedad en personas mayores
- Webpage file: Insomnia and Anxiety in Older People →
- Webpage file: Insomnio y ansiedad en personas mayores →
- Plain English: Supplements for Osteoarthritis (AAOS)
- Spanish: El tratamiento de la osteoartritis de la rodilla
- Webpage file: Supplements for Osteoarthritis →
- Webpage file: El tratamiento de la osteoartritis de la rodilla →
- Plain English: Taking Medicines Safely
- Spanish: Cómo tomar medicinas de forma segura
- Webpage file: Taking Medicines Safely →
- Webpage file: Cómo tomar medicinas de forma segura →
- Plain English: Testosterone for Erection Problems (AUA)
- Spanish: Tratamiento para los problemas de erección
- Webpage file: Testosterone for Erection Problems →
- Webpage file: Tratamiento para los problemas de erección →
- Plain English: Think Your Child Needs Antibiotics?
- Plain English: Think your child needs antibiotics? (For printing)
- Spanish: ¿Crees que tu hijo necesita antibióticos?
- Spanish: ¿Crees que tu hijo necesita antibióticos? (For printing)
- Webpage file: Think Your Child Needs Antibiotics? →
- Webpage file: ¿Crees que tu hijo necesita antibióticos? →
- Plain English: Treating Frequent Headaches With Pain Relievers (AHS)
- Spanish: Tratamiento de dolores de cabeza frecuentes con analgésicos
- Webpage file: Treating Frequent Headaches With Pain Relievers →
- Webpage file: Tratamiento de dolores de cabeza frecuentes con analgésicos →
- Plain English: Treating Heartburn and GERD
- Spanish: Cómo tratar las agruras y la enfermedad de reflujo gastroesofágico
- Webpage file: Treating Heartburn and GERD →
- Plain English: Treating Sinusitis
- Spanish: Cómo tratar la sinusitis
- Video: Para tratar la sinusitis
- Video: Treating sinusitis
- Webpage file: Treating Sinusitis →
- Webpage file: Cómo tratar la sinusitis →
- Plain English: Treating Sinus Problems
- Spanish: Cómo tratar la sinusitis
- Video: Treating Sinusitis
- Video: Para tratar la sinusitis
- Webpage file: Treating Sinus Problems →
- Webpage file: Cómo tratar la sinusitis →
- Plain English: Treating Sleep Problems (APA)
- Spanish: Tratamiento de problemas del sueño
- Webpage file: Treating Sleep Problems →
- Webpage file: Tratamiento de problemas del sueño →
- Plain English: You May Not Need Antibiotics for Your Skin
- Plain English: You May Not Need Antibiotics for Your Skin (for printer, small)
- Plain English: You May Not Need Antibiotics for Your Skin (for printer, large)
- Spanish: Usted podría no necesitar antibióticos para la piel
- Spanish: Usted podría no necesitar antibióticos para la piel (for printer, small)
- Spanish: Usted podría no necesitar antibióticos para la piel (for printer, large)
Antibiotic Treatment in the Hospital (SHEA)
The CDC is urging hospitals to cut back on the use of antibiotics when they are not needed. Here's what you should know.
Antibiotics (rack card)
Have a sore throat, cough, or runny nose? You probably don’t need antibiotics.
Antibiotics (rack card) (for children)
Does your child have a sore throat, cough, or runny nose? They probably don’t need antibiotics.
Antibiotics for Ear Infections in Children (AAFP)
In most cases of middle ear infection, antibiotics are not needed. Here's what to do instead.
Antibiotics for People With Catheters (AUA)
Almost all people who have catheters have some bacteria in their urine. But that doesn’t mean they all need antibiotics.
Antibiotics for Pink Eye (AAO)
Antibiotic eye drops or ointments don’t usually help with conjunctivitis. In fact, they can do more harm than good.
Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Adults (IDSA)
Antibiotics don’t help most respiratory infections. Here’s when you need antibiotics, and when you don't.
Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Children (AAP)
Most of the time, children don't need antibiotics for sore throat, cough or runny nose.
Antibiotics for Urinary Tract Infections in Older People (AGS)
Many older people get antibiotic treatment for urinary tract infections when they don't need it.
Antibiotics for Your Skin (AAD)
Some skin problems don’t stem from infections at all. So treating them with antibiotics can do more harm than good.
Antibiotics: When You Need Them and When You Don’t
When and how to use antibiotics to help you and your loved ones avoid drug resistance.
Antibiotics: Will They Help You or Hurt You?
Do you really need antibiotics? They can help you. But they also can harm you.
Antipsychotic Drugs for People with Dementia (AGS)
Powerful antipsychotic drugs should not be the first choice for people with dementia. Here's why.
Avoid Opioids for Most Long-Term Pain
In this guide you can read what the experts say about using opioids.
Cholesterol Drugs for People Over 75 (AMDA)
If you are age 75 or older and you haven’t had symptoms of heart disease, statins may be a bad idea.
Choosing Wisely: Antibiotics (Video)
Antibiotics can help with some infections, but they're not right for every situation.
Diabetes Tests and Treatments
If you have diabetes, when do you need to test your own glucose levels, and when do you need to take medication?
Dietary Supplements to Prevent Heart Disease or Cancer (ACPM)
Research shows that most people don't benefit from taking supplements to prevent heart disease or cancer.
Drugs for Migraine Headaches (AAN)
Think twice about treating migraine attacks with opioids or butalbital.
Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis (ACR)
The older, "non-biologic" drugs are a better first choice for treating rheumatoid arthritis.
Drugs to Prevent Infection During Chemotherapy (ASCO)
When do you need CSFs? When don't you need them?
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Antibiotics (large posters, for children)
Use these five questions to talk to your doctor about when you need antibiotics -- and when you don’t.
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Antibiotics (small posters, for children)
Use these five questions to talk to your doctor about when you need antibiotics -- and when you don’t.
Medicines to Relieve Chronic Pain (ASA)
Opioids (narcotics) usually are not the best way to treat long-term pain like arthritis, back pain or headaches.
Medicines to Treat Cancer (ASCO)
Drugs used to treat cancer can also cause harm, and some are very expensive. Here's what to discuss with your doctor.
Opioids for Pain (rack card)
Do you have ongoing pain that is not from cancer or a terminal illness? If so, you probably don't need an opioid pain reliever.
Oral Antibiotics for Ear Infections (AAO-HNSF)
Sometimes antibiotic eardrops are safer and more effective than oral antibiotics.
Painkiller Choices With Kidney or Heart Problems (ASN)
If you suffer from high blood pressure, heart failure, or kidney disease, steer clear of some pain relievers.
Preventing Seizures After an Ischemic Stroke (AANS, CNS)
Anti-seizure medicine is not usually necessary after an ischemic stroke.
Sleeping Pills for Children With Insomnia (AASM)
Sleep drugs aren’t made for children. There are no prescription drugs approved in the U.S. to treat childhood insomnia.
Sleeping Pills for Insomnia (AASM)
Sleeping pills are often not the best option for insomnia. Here's what you need to know.
Sleeping Pills for Insomnia and Anxiety in Older People (AGS)
Older adults usually should try other non-drug treatments first, for insomnia and anxiety.
Supplements for Osteoarthritis (AAOS)
The popular supplements glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate do not help relieve arthritic knees.
Taking Medicines Safely (ASHP)
It is more precise to measure medicines in milliliters, instead of using a kitchen spoon.
Testosterone for Erection Problems (AUA)
Unless you have other symptoms of low testosterone, you should think twice about the treatment. Here's why.
Think Your Child Needs Antibiotics?
Taking antibiotics when they aren’t needed can cause dangerous side effects.
Treating Frequent Headaches With Pain Relievers (AHS)
It is easy to use too much pain medicine. This can make headaches worse and cause other medical problems.
Treating Heartburn and GERD (AGA)
In most cases of heartburn a PPI isn't necessary.
Treating Sinusitis (AAAAI)
Millions of people are prescribed antibiotics each year for sinusitis.
Treating Sinusitis (AAFP)
Millions of people are prescribed antibiotics each year for sinusitis.
Treating Sleep Problems (APA)
If you have insomnia, antipsychotic drugs should not be the first choice of treatment.
You May Not Need Antibiotics for Your Skin (AAD)
You may not need antibiotics for some skin problems. Ask your doctor if there is another treatment you can try instead.
Choosing Wisely: Procedures
- Plain English: Advice for Caregivers: Treatments and Tests for Seniors
- Spanish: Consejos para los cuidadores
- Webpage file: Advice for Caregivers →
- Webpage file: Consejos para los cuidadores →
- Plain English: Artery and Vein Problems
- Spanish: Problemas de las arterias y las venas
- Plain English: Ask Your Doctor: Do I Need This Cancer Test or Treatment? (ASCO)
- Spanish: Pregúntele a su médico: ¿Necesito esta prueba o tratamiento para el cáncer?
- Webpage file: Ask Your Doctor: Do I Need This Cancer Test or Treatment? →
- Webpage file: Pregúntele a su médico: ¿Necesito esta prueba o tratamiento para el cáncer? →
- Plain English: Back Pain Tests and Treatments (AAPM&R;)
- Spanish: Pruebas y tratamientos para el dolor de espalda
- Webpage file: Back Pain Tests and Treatments →
- Webpage file: Pruebas y tratamientos para el dolor de espalda →
- Plain English: Bed Rest for Lower-Back Pain (NASS)
- Spanish: Tratamiento del dolor en la parte baja de la espalda
- Webpage file: Treating Lower-Back Pain →
- Webpage file: Tratamiento del dolor en la parte baja de la espalda →
- Plain English: Blood Transfusions for Anemia in the Hospital (ASH)
- Spanish: Transfusiones de sangre para la anemia en el hospital
- Webpage file: Blood Transfusions for Anemia in the Hospital →
- Webpage file: Transfusiones de sangre para la anemia en el hospital →
- Plain English: Breast Biopsy (CoC)
- Spanish: Biopsia del seno
- Webpage file: Breast Biopsy →
- Webpage file: Biopsia del seno →
- English: Cancer Tests and Treatments (ASCO)
- Webpage file: Hard Decisions About Cancer Tests and Treatments →
- Plain English: Care at the End of Life for Advanced Cancer Patients (ASCO)
- Spanish: Cuidados al fin de la vida para pacientes con cáncer avanzado
- Webpage file: Care at the End of Life for Advanced Cancer Patients →
- Webpage file: Cuidados al fin de la vida para pacientes con cáncer avanzado →
- Plain English: Carotid Artery Surgery
- Spanish: Cirugía de la arteria carótida
- Webpage file: Carotid Artery Surgery →
- Webpage file: Cirugía de la arteria carótida →
- Plain English: Colonoscopy
- Spanish: Colonoscopía
- Webpage file: Colonoscopy →
- Plain English: Dental Fillings That Contain Mercury (ACMT, AACT)
- Spanish: Empastes dentales que contienen mercurio
- Webpage file: Dental Fillings That Contain Mercury →
- Webpage file: Empastes dentales que contienen mercurio →
- Plain English: Do You Really Need That Medical Test or Treatment?
- Plain English: Do You Really Need That Medical Test or Treatment? (for printer)
- Spanish: ¿Realmente necesitas esa prueba o tratamiento médico?
- Spanish: ¿Realmente necesitas esa prueba o tratamiento médico? (for printer)
- Webpage file: ¿Realmente necesitas esa prueba o tratamiento médico? →
- Webpage file: Do You Really Need That Medical Test or Treatment? →
- Plain English: Early Delivery (ACOG, AAFP)
- Spanish: Al dar a luz a su bebé
- Webpage file: Early Delivery →
- Webpage file: Al dar a luz a su bebé →
- Plain English: Feeding Tubes for People With Alzheimer’s (AGS, AAHPM)
- Spanish: Sondas de Alimentación para las personas con Alzheimer
- Webpage file: Feeding Tubes for People with Alzheimer’s →
- Webpage file: Sondas de alimentación para las personas con Alzheimer →
- Plain English: Five Physical Therapy Treatments You Probably Don’t Need (APTA)
- Spanish: Terapia Física
- Webpage file: Physical Therapy →
- Webpage file: Terapia Física →
- Plain English: Home apnea monitors for SIDs (AAP)
- Spanish: Monitores caseros para la apnea para el SIDS
- Webpage file: Home Apnea Monitors for SIDs →
- Webpage file: Monitores caseros para la apnea para el SIDS →
- Plain English: Home Oxygen After a Hospital Stay (CHEST/ATS)
- Spanish: Oxígeno en casa después de una estadía en el hospital
- Webpage file: Home Oxygen After a Hospital Stay →
- Webpage file: Oxígeno en casa después de una estadía en el hospital →
- Plain English: Hospital Hazards (AAN)
- Spanish: Peligros en el hospital
- Webpage file: Hospital Hazards →
- Plain English: Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy
- Spanish: Terapia de reemplazo de IgG
- Webpage file: Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy →
- Plain English: Implanted Heart Devices at the End of Life (AAHPM)
- Spanish: Dispositivos cardíacos implantados al final de la vida
- Webpage file: Implanted Heart Devices at the End of Life →
- Webpage file: Dispositivos cardíacos implantados al final de la vida →
- Plain English: Kidney Disease (ASN)
- Spanish: Enfermedad Renal Crónica
- Webpage file: Chronic Kidney Disease →
- Webpage file: Enfermedad renal crónica →
- Plain English: Managing Side Effects of Cancer and its Treatments
- Spanish: Cómo controlar los efectos secundarios del cáncer y sus tratamientos
- Plain English: Monitoring Your Baby's Heartbeat During Labor (AAN)
- Spanish: Monitoreo del latido cardíaco del bebé durante el trabajo de parto
- Webpage file: Monitoring Your Baby's Heartbeat During Labor →
- Webpage file: Monitoreo del latido cardíaco del bebé durante el trabajo de parto →
- Plain English: Overactive Bladder and Pelvic Organ Prolapse
- Spanish: Vejiga hiperactiva y prolapso de órganos pélvicos
- Plain English: Palliative Care (AAHPM)
- Spanish: Cuidados Paliativos
- Webpage file: Palliative Care →
- Webpage file: Cuidados paliativos →
- Plain English: Pelvic Exams and Pap Tests Before Contraceptives (AAFP)
- Spanish: Exámenes pélvicos, exámenes de Papanicolau y anticonceptivos orales
- Webpage file: Pelvic Exams and Pap Tests Before Contraceptives →
- Webpage file: Exámenes pélvicos, exámenes de Papanicolau y anticonceptivos orales →
- Plain English: Preventing Infections in the Hospital (SHM)
- Spanish: Cómo prevenir las infecciones en el hospital
- Webpage file: Preventing Infections in the Hospital →
- Webpage file: Cómo prevenir las infecciones en el hospital →
- Plain English: Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Radiation for Cancer (ASTRO)
- Spanish: Preguntas sobre la radiación para el cáncer
- Webpage file: Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Radiation for Cancer →
- Webpage file: Preguntas sobre la radiación para el cáncer →
- Plain English: Radiation Therapy for Breast and Gynecologic Cancers (ASTRO)
- Spanish: La radioterapia para los cánceres ginecológicos y de seno
- Webpage file: Radiation Therapy for Breast and Gynecologic Cancers →
- Webpage file: La radioterapia para los cánceres ginecológicos y de seno →
- Plain English: Radiation Therapy for Cancer (ASTRO)
- Spanish: La radioterapia para el cáncer
- Webpage file: Radiation Therapy for Cancer →
- Webpage file: La radioterapia para el cáncer →
- Plain English: Sentinel Node Biopsy for Breast Cancer (CoC, NAPBC)
- Spanish: Tratamiento para el cáncer de seno
- Webpage file: Sentinel Node Biopsy for Breast Cancer →
- Webpage file: Tratamiento para el cáncer de seno →
- Plain English: Stable Heart Disease (SCAI)
- Spanish: Enfermedad cardíaca estable
- Webpage file: Stable Heart Disease →
- Webpage file: Enfermedad cardíaca estable →
- Plain English: Tests and Treatments Employees May Not Need (ACOEM)
- Spanish: Pruebas y tratamientos que posiblemente sus empleados no necesiten
- Webpage file: Tests and Treatments Employees May Not Need →
- Webpage file: Pruebas y tratamientos que posiblemente sus empleados no necesiten →
- Plain English: Tests and Treatments for Prostate Cancer
- Plain English: Tests and Treatments for Prostate Cancer (for printer)
- Plain English: Tests and Treatments for Prostate Cancer (for printer)
- Spanish: Exámenes y tratamientos para el cáncer de próstata
- Spanish: Exámenes y tratamientos para el cáncer de próstata )for printer)
- Plain English: Tests and Treatments for Women with Breast Cancer
- Spanish: Pruebas y tratamientos para mujeres con cáncer de seno
- Plain English: Treating Acute Blood Clots (ASH)
- Spanish: Tratamiento de coágulos sanguíneos agudos
- Webpage file: Treating Acute Blood Clots →
- Webpage file: Tratamiento de coágulos sanguíneos agudos →
- Plain English: Treating Blocked Leg Arteries (SVM)
- Spanish: Tratamiento de arterias obstruidas en las piernas
- Webpage file: Treating Blocked Leg Arteries →
- Webpage file: Tratamiento de arterias obstruidas en las piernas →
- Plain English: Treating Low-Risk Prostate Cancer (ASTRO)
- Spanish: Cáncer de próstata de bajo riesgo
- Webpage file: Treating Low-Risk Prostate Cancer →
- Webpage file: Cáncer de próstata de bajo riesgo →
- Plain English: Treating Plantar Fasciitis (AOFAS)
- Spanish: Tratamiento de la Fascitis Plantar
- Webpage file: Treating Plantar Fasciitis →
- Webpage file: Tratamiento de la Fascitis Plantar →
- Plain English: Treatments and Tests Your Baby May Not Need in the Hospital (AAP)
- Spanish: Tratamientos y pruebas que probablemente su bebé no necesite en el hospital
- Webpage file: Treatments and Tests Your Baby May Not Need in the Hospital →
- Webpage file: Tratamientos y pruebas que probablemente su bebé no necesite en el hospital →
- Plain English: Unnecessary Treatments in the Emergency Room (ACEP)
- Spanish: Evite tratamientos innecesarios en la sala de emergencias
- Webpage file: Unnecessary Treatments in the Emergency Room →
- Webpage file: Evite tratamientos innecesarios en la sala de emergencias →
- Plain English: Vision Care for Children (AAPOS)
- Spanish: Cuidado de la vista para los niños
- Webpage file: Vision Care for Children →
- Webpage file: Cuidado de la vista para los niños →
- Plain English: When It's Hard to Get Pregnant (ASRM)
- Spanish: Cuando es difícil embarazarse
- Webpage file: When It's Hard to Get Pregnant →
- Webpage file: Cuando es difícil embarazarse →
- Plain English: Which Dental Treatments Are Right for You?
- Plain English: Which Dental Treatments Are Right for You? (for printer)
- Spanish: ¿Qué tratamientos dentales son los adecuados para usted?
- Spanish: ¿Qué tratamientos dentales son los adecuados para usted? (for printer)
Advice for Caregivers: Treatments and Tests for Seniors
Some tests and treatments won’t help older adults. They may even be harmful, especially near the end of life.
Artery and Vein Problems (SVS)
Vascular surgeons have listed four overused operations that are intended to treat vein and artery problems. If your doctor orders one of these, you should ask why.
Ask Your Doctor: Do I Need This Cancer Test or Treatment? (ASCO)
You may not need some common forms of imaging, screening tests, monitoring and drug therapy for cancer.
Back Pain Tests and Treatments (AAPM&R)
Some tests and treatments for back pain may not be right for you. That's why it is important to talk to your doctor.
Bed Rest for Lower-Back Pain (NASS)
Studies show that staying in bed longer than 48 hours won’t help with lower-back pain.
Blood Transfusions for Anemia in the Hospital (ASH)
Anemia is usually not urgent. Usually you don’t need a lot of blood. Or you may not need any blood at all.
Breast Biopsy (CoC)
In contrast with surgical or "open" biopsy, a needle biopsy is easier on the body.
Cancer Tests and Treatments (ASCO)
Some tests, treatments, and procedures are not only unnecessary, they can even prove harmful.
Care at the End of Life for Advanced Cancer Patients (ASCO)
Although it is hard to accept, the best thing for you may be to stop treatment for the cancer.
Carotid Artery Surgery (AAN)
Having some blockage in a carotid artery doesn't automatically mean you should have artery-clearing surgery.
Colonoscopy (AGA)
Even a very good test can be done too often.
Dental Fillings That Contain Mercury (ACMT, AACT)
It's not necessary to replace fillings that contain mercury.
Do You Really Need That Medical Test or Treatment? (rack card)
Sometimes doctors recommend things that aren’t needed. Sometimes they do it because their patients expect and ask for them. Before you get any medical test or treatment, ask your doctor these 5 questions.
Early Delivery (ACOG, AAFP)
To hurry a baby’s birth can increase the risk of serious problems for both you and your baby.
Feeding Tubes for People With Alzheimer’s (AGS, AAHPM)
Feeding tubes sometimes do more harm than good. Here’s why.
Five Physical Therapy Treatments You Probably Don’t Need (APTA)
Five common physical therapy treatments can lead to harm, more tests, and greater costs.
Home Apnea Monitors for SIDs (AAP)
Home apnea monitors give little or no protection from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
Home Oxygen After a Hospital Stay (CHEST/ATS)
Many people who use long-term home oxygen therapy don’t need it.
Hospital Hazards (AAN)
The American Academy of Nursing has identified four hospital practices that are usually unnecessary and may harm you.
Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy (AAAAI)
Some people receive the treatment even though they don’t need it.
Implanted Heart Devices at the End of Life (AAHPM)
An ICD helps the heart beat normally. But if you are near death, those shocks can make things worse.
Kidney Disease (ASN)
Here are four important tests and treatments you should carefully discuss with your family and doctor
Managing Side Effects of Cancer and its Treatments (AAN)
Some methods used to manage symptoms and side effects do not work. And some proven methods are often overlooked.
Monitoring Your Baby’s Heartbeat During Labor (AAN)
During labor and birth, the type of fetal heart rate monitoring called IA, for intermittent auscultation, is often the better choice.
Overactive Bladder and Pelvic Organ Prolapse (AUGS)
Here's what women should know about tests and treatments for these conditions.
Palliative Care (AAHPM)
With palliative care, you can get physical, emotional, and spiritual support at any stage of a serious illness.
Pelvic Exams and Pap Tests Before Contraceptives (AAFP)
You usually don’t need a Pap test and pelvic exam before getting birth control pills.
Preventing Infections in the Hospital (SHM)
Watch out for two overused hospital medical practices, urinary catheters and ulcer drugs.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Radiation for Cancer (ASTRO)
Radiation therapy can help treat cancer and the painful symptoms from tumors. But it's not always needed.
Radiation Therapy for Breast and Gynecologic Cancers (ASTRO)
When it comes to radiation therapy, sometimes less is more. Use this advice to start a conversation with your doctor about the benefits and risks.
Radiation Therapy for Cancer (ASTRO)
Here is advice for talking with your doctor about whether to use radiation as part of cancer treatment.
Sentinel Node Biopsy for Breast Cancer (CoC, NAPBC)
If you have breast cancer, there is a newer, simpler surgery to check your lymph nodes.
Stable Heart Disease (SCAI)
You may not need an angiogram if your heart disease is stable. Here's why.
Tests and Treatments Employees May Not Need (ACOEM)
Employers should consider these guidelines when sending workers or job candidates to the doctor.
Tests and Treatments for Prostate Cancer
It can be hard to know which tests and treatments to get for prostate cancer. This report pulls together the latest advice from experts.
Tests and Treatments for Women with Breast Cancer (ASBS)
If your doctor recommends one of these five procedures, ask if it’s really necessary. And ask about the risks and costs.
Treating Acute Blood Clots (ASH)
If you have a deep blood clot, you probably don't need a device called an IVC filter. They don't work better than blood-thinning drugs.
Treating Blocked Leg Arteries (SVM)
Most people with Peripheral Artery Disease won't benefit from surgery or angioplasty.
Treating Low-Risk Prostate Cancer (ASTRO)
If you have prostate cancer, but it poses a low risk to you, consider "watchful waiting."
Treating Plantar Fasciitis (AOFAS)
Some doctors recommend surgery. But that can lead to complications, and it doesn’t always work.
Treatments and Tests Your Baby May Not Need in the Hospital (AAP)
Here are some common tests and treatments a premature baby may not need.
Unnecessary Treatments in the Emergency Room (ACEP)
Three procedures commonly used in the emergency room are unnecessary in many cases.
Vision Care for Children (AAPOS)
There are several common vision tests and procedures that many children do not need.
When It’s Hard to Get Pregnant (ASRM)
Some fertility tests are not usually needed. For example, most couples don't need laparoscopies or post-coital tests.
Which Dental Treatments Are Right for You? (ADA)
Here are some facts about common dental treatments. Ask your dentist which treatments are best for you and your family.
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La mayoría de nuestros informes sobre fármacos, pruebas y tratamientos están disponibles en español. Hemos reunido a todos los informes en un solo sitio.
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Choosing Wisely Video Collection
Our video collection reinforces the messages from Choosing Wisely and Best Buy Drugs. You can watch them here, share them, or view the entire collection.
Related Consumer Information
These special reports from Consumer Reports magazine address important issues confronting healthcare consumers and their families.
Each PDF file may be read here, printed or downloaded to the user’s own device.
10 Over-the-Counter Drugs to Avoid During Pregnancy
We’ve identified 10 common ingredients used in OTC drugs that are risky for pregnant women, as well as safer alternatives.
9 Great Health Articles Worth Reading Again
A special compilation of highlights of our recent work in health at Consumer Reports.
America’s Antibiotic Crisis
Consumer Reports has joined the fight to keep a unique and life-saving product working: antibiotics.
Cancer Tests and Treatments
When you need that cancer screening test -- and when you don't.
Dr. Who?
The next ‘doctor’ you see might be a nurse practitioner. Here's a guide to who you can expect to see in a white coat, and how they can help you.
Healing Hearts
Cardiac care is a money-making machine that too often favors profit over science.
Medical Homes
Patient-centered medical homes seek to provide comprehensive, continuous, well-coordinated care to patients.
What Doctors Wish Their Patients Knew
How to strengthen the doctor-patient relationship.
What to Reject When You’re Expecting
Here are 10 procedures to think twice about during your pregnancy.
- English: What to Reject When You’re Expecting
- Spanish: Qué debe rechazar cuando está embarazada