Sharp Health Plan Helps You Make Better Health Care Choices

The mission of Sharp Health Plan, the largest locally based commercial health plan in San Diego and a subsidiary of Sharp HealthCare, is to provide the best coverage, best care and best service at the best value.

At Sharp Health Plan, we believe informed patients make smarter choices that make their life better. That’s why we’re collaborating with Consumer Reports to bring you the Consumer Health Choices website, a resource to help you partner with your health care provider to make safer, smarter choices and to reduce your costs for lab tests, procedures and medications.

Make Informed Health Choices

Use the materials you find here to learn which tests, treatments and medications are right for you based on your age, gender and health history. Then take that information to your provider and discuss which choices are best for you.

Lab Tests

Allergy Tests (AAAAI)

• If you don’t have symptoms or a medical evaluation that points to allergy, think twice about skin or blood tests.
• Plain English: Allergy Tests
• Spanish: Pruebas para Alergias

Alzheimer’s Disease Testing (SNMMI)

• If you're having memory problems, your doctor should look for other causes before ordering a brain scan.
• Plain English: Alzheimer’s Disease Testing (SNMMI)
• Spanish: Pruebas para la enfermedad de Alzheimer

Blood Tests for Miscarriage Risk (SMFM)

• Blood tests for thrombophilia often are not needed, even if you have had a pregnancy problem.
• Plain English: Blood Tests for Miscarriage Risk (SMFM)
• Spanish: Pruebas de sangre para mostrar el riesgo de un aborto espontáneo

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.
• Plain English: Blood Tests in the Hospital (SHM)
• Spanish: Pruebas de sangre cuando usted está en el hospital

Cancer Tests and Treatments (ASCO)

• Some tests, treatments, and procedures are not only unnecessary, they can even prove harmful.
• English: Cancer Tests and Treatments (ASCO)

Echocardiograms for Valve Disease (ACC)

• When do you need an echocardiogram?
• Plain English: Echocardiograms for Valve Disease (ACC)
• Spanish: Ecocardiografía para valvulopatías cardíacas

EKGs and Exercise Stress Tests (AAFP)

• EKGs or exercise stress tests usually aren't necessary for people without symptoms.
• Plain English: EKGs and Exercise Stress Tests (AAFP)
• Spanish: Los electrocardiogramas (ECG) (EKG) y las pruebas de esfuerzo durante el ejercicio

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.
• 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

Five Ways to be Smart About Ovarian Cancer (posters)

• What you need to know about ovarian cancer prevention, risks, symptoms and testing.
• 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

Health Checkups (SGIM)

• You probably don't need that yearly checkup. In fact, it can do more harm than good.
• Plain English: Health Checkups (SGIM)
• Spanish: Exámenes médicos

Imaging and Blood Tests in Early Breast Cancer (ASCO)

• When do cancer experts recommend imaging tests and tumor marker tests?
• Plain English: Imaging and Blood Tests in Early Breast Cancer (ASCO)
• Spanish: Pruebas de marcadores tumorales y de imágenes para el cáncer de seno

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.
• Plain English: Lab Tests Before Surgery (ASCP)
• Spanish: Pruebas de laboratorio antes de una cirugía

Lyme Disease Tests (ACR)

• There are two blood tests for Lyme disease, but usually you don't need them. Here's why.
• Plain English: Lyme Disease Tests (ACR)
• Spanish: Pruebas para la Enfermedad de Lyme

Making Smart Decisions About Genetic Testing (ACMG)

• Sometimes a genetic test is not the best way to find an inherited condition or disease risk.
• Plain English: Making Smart Decisions About Genetic Testing (ACMG)
• Spanish: Cómo tomar decisiones inteligentes sobre las pruebas genéticas

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.
• Plain English: Medical Tests Before Eye Surgery (AAO)
• Spanish: Pruebas médicas antes de una cirugía de ojo

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.
• Plain English: Medical Tests Before Surgery - When You Need Them, and When You Don't
• Spanish: Pruebas médicas antes de una cirugía

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.
• Plain English: Neck and Back Pain: When You Need Tests (AANEM)
• Spanish: Dolor de cuello y espalda

Pap Tests (AAFP)

• Many teenage girls and some women have the test when they don’t need it. Here’s why.
• Plain English: Pap Tests
• Spanish: Pruebas de Papanicolaou

PSA Test for Prostate Cancer (AAFP)

• The PSA screening test is widely used, but often is not needed.
• Plain English: PSA Test for Prostate Cancer (AAFP)
• Spanish: La prueba de sangre PSA para detectar cáncer de próstata

PSA Tests for Prostate Cancer (AUA)

• The PSA test is the only available screening test for prostate cancer, but it can have serious risks.
• Plain English: PSA Tests for Prostate Cancer (AUA)
• Spanish: Las pruebas de sangre del antígeno prostático específico o PSA para el cáncer de próstata

Screening Tests for Ovarian Cancer (SGO)

• Ultrasound and the CA-125 blood test are not useful for screening low-risk women for ovarian cancer.
• Plain English: Screening Tests for Ovarian Cancer (SGO)
• Spanish: Exámenes de detección para el cáncer de ovario

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.
• Plain English: Screening Tests: When You Need Them, When You Don't
• Spanish: Pruebas de detección

Spirometry for Asthma (AAAAI)

• Many people who need the test don’t receive it.
• Plain English: Spirometry for Asthma (AAAAI)

Stress Tests After a Stent Procedure (SCAI)

• Stress tests usually aren’t helpful after a stent procedure, unless you have symptoms of heart disease.
• Plain English: Stress Tests After a Stent Procedure (SCAI)
• Spanish: Pruebas de esfuerzo después de un procedimiento de endoprótesis o colocación de stent

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.
• Plain English: Stress Tests Before Surgery (SVM)
• Spanish: Pruebas de esfuerzo del corazón antes de una cirugía

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.
• English: Stress Tests for Chest Pain (ASNC)

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.
• Plain English: Testing after heart procedures
• Spanish: Pruebas después de procedimientos cardíacos

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.
• Plain English: Tests Before Heart Surgery (STS)
• Spanish: Pruebas antes de una cirugía del corazón

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.
• Plain English: Urinary Tract Infections in Older People (AGS, AMDA)
• Spanish: Pruebas y tratamientos para infecciones de las vías urinarias (UTI) en personas mayores

Vitamin D Tests (ASCP)

• Doctors often order a blood test to measure your vitamin D, but the results are unlikely to change their advice.
• Plain English: Vitamin D Tests (ASCP)
• Spanish: Pruebas de Vitamina D

Medical Procedures

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.
• Plain English: Advice for Caregivers: Treatments and Tests for Seniors
• Spanish: Consejos para los cuidadores

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.
• 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?

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.
• Plain English: Back Pain Tests and Treatments (AAPM&R;)
• Spanish: Pruebas y tratamientos para el dolor de espalda

Bed Rest for Lower-Back Pain (NASS)

• Studies show that staying in bed longer than 48 hours won’t help with lower-back pain.
• Plain English: Bed Rest for Lower-Back Pain (NASS)
• Spanish: Tratamiento del dolor en la parte baja de la espalda

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.
• Plain English: Blood Transfusions for Anemia in the Hospital (ASH)
• Spanish: Transfusiones de sangre para la anemia en el hospital

Breast Biopsy (CoC)

• In contrast with surgical or "open" biopsy, a needle biopsy is easier on the body.
• Plain English: Breast Biopsy (CoC)
• Spanish: Biopsia del seno

Cancer Tests and Treatments (ASCO)

• Some tests, treatments, and procedures are not only unnecessary, they can even prove harmful.
• English: Cancer Tests and Treatments (ASCO)

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.
• 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

Carotid Artery Surgery (AAN)

• Having some blockage in a carotid artery doesn't automatically mean you should have artery-clearing surgery.
• Plain English: Carotid Artery Surgery (AAN)
• Spanish: Cirugía de la arteria carótida

Colonoscopy (AGA)

• Even a very good test can be done too often.
• English: Colonoscopy (AGA)

Dental Fillings That Contain Mercury (ACMT, AACT)

• It's not necessary to replace fillings that contain mercury.
• Plain English: Dental Fillings That Contain Mercury (ACMT, AACT)
• Spanish: Empastes dentales que contienen mercurio

Early Delivery (ACOG, AAFP)

• To hurry a baby’s birth can increase the risk of serious problems for both you and your baby.
• Plain English: Early Delivery (ACOG, AAFP)
• Spanish: Al dar a luz a su bebé

Feeding Tubes for People With Alzheimer’s (AGS, AAHPM)

• Feeding tubes sometimes do more harm than good. Here’s why.
• Plain English: Feeding Tubes for People With Alzheimer’s (AGS, AAHPM)
• Spanish: Sondas de Alimentación para las personas con Alzheimer

Five Physical Therapy Treatments You Probably Don’t Need (APTA)

• Five common physical therapy treatments can lead to harm, more tests, and greater costs.
• Plain English: Five Physical Therapy Treatments You Probably Don’t Need (APTA)
• Spanish: Terapia Física

Home Apnea Monitors for SIDs (AAP)

• Home apnea monitors give little or no protection from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
• Plain English: Home apnea monitors for SIDs (AAP)
• Spanish: Monitores caseros para la apnea para el SIDS

Home Oxygen After a Hospital Stay (CHEST/ATS)

• Many people who use long-term home oxygen therapy don’t need it.
• Plain English: Home Oxygen After a Hospital Stay (CHEST/ATS)
• Spanish: Oxígeno en casa después de una estadía en el hospital

Hospital Hazards (AAN)

• The American Academy of Nursing has identified four hospital practices that are usually unnecessary and may harm you.
• Plain English: Hospital Hazards (AAN)

Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy (AAAAI)

• Some people receive the treatment even though they don’t need it.
• English: Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy (AAAAI)

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.
• Plain English: Implanted Heart Devices at the End of Life (AAHPM)
• Spanish: Dispositivos cardíacos implantados al final de la vida

Kidney Disease (ASN)

• Here are four important tests and treatments you should carefully discuss with your family and doctor
• Plain English: Kidney Disease (ASN)
• Spanish: Enfermedad Renal Crónica

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.
• Plain English: Monitoring Your Baby's Heartbeat During Labor (AAN)
• Spanish: Monitoreo del latido cardíaco del bebé durante el trabajo de parto

Palliative Care (AAHPM)

• With palliative care, you can get physical, emotional, and spiritual support at any stage of a serious illness.
• Plain English: Palliative Care (AAHPM)
• Spanish: Cuidados Paliativos

Pelvic Exams and Pap Tests Before Contraceptives (AAFP)

• You usually don’t need a Pap test and pelvic exam before getting birth control pills.
• Plain English: Pelvic Exams and Pap Tests Before Contraceptives (AAFP)
• Spanish: Exámenes pélvicos, exámenes de Papanicolau y anticonceptivos orales

Preventing Infections in the Hospital (SHM)

• Watch out for two overused hospital medical practices, urinary catheters and ulcer drugs.
• Plain English: Preventing Infections in the Hospital (SHM)
• Spanish: Cómo prevenir las infecciones en el hospital

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.
• Plain English: Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Radiation for Cancer (ASTRO)
• Spanish: Preguntas sobre la radiación para el cáncer

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.
• Plain English: Radiation Therapy for Breast and Gynecologic Cancers (ASTRO)
• Spanish: La radioterapia para los cánceres ginecológicos y de seno

Radiation Therapy for Cancer (ASTRO)

• Here is advice for talking with your doctor about whether to use radiation as part of cancer treatment.
• Plain English: Radiation Therapy for Cancer (ASTRO)
• Spanish: La radioterapia para el cáncer

Sentinel Node Biopsy for Breast Cancer (CoC, NAPBC)

• If you have breast cancer, there is a newer, simpler surgery to check your lymph nodes.
• Plain English: Sentinel Node Biopsy for Breast Cancer (CoC, NAPBC)
• Spanish: Tratamiento para el cáncer de seno

Stable Heart Disease (SCAI)

• You may not need an angiogram if your heart disease is stable. Here's why.
• Plain English: Stable Heart Disease (SCAI)
• Spanish: Enfermedad cardíaca estable

Tests and Treatments Employees may not Need (ACOEM)

• Employers should consider these guidelines when sending workers or job candidates to the doctor.
• Plain English: Tests and Treatments Employees may not Need (ACOEM)
• Spanish: Pruebas y tratamientos que posiblemente sus empleados no necesiten

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.
• 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)

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.
• Plain English: Treating Acute Blood Clots (ASH)
• Spanish: Tratamiento de coágulos sanguíneos agudos

Treating Blocked Leg Arteries (SVM)

• Most people with Peripheral Artery Disease won't benefit from surgery or angioplasty.
• Plain English: Treating Blocked Leg Arteries (SVM)
• Spanish: Tratamiento de arterias obstruidas en las piernas

Treating Low-Risk Prostate Cancer (ASTRO)

• If you have prostate cancer, but it poses a low risk to you, consider "watchful waiting."
• Plain English: Treating Low-Risk Prostate Cancer (ASTRO)
• Spanish: Cáncer de próstata de bajo riesgo

Treating Plantar Fasciitis (AOFAS)

• Some doctors recommend surgery. But that can lead to complications, and it doesn’t always work.
• Plain English: Treating Plantar Fasciitis (AOFAS)
• Spanish: Tratamiento de la Fascitis Plantar

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.
• 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

Unnecessary Treatments in the Emergency Room (ACEP)

• Three procedures commonly used in the emergency room are unnecessary in many cases.
• Plain English: Unnecessary Treatments in the Emergency Room (ACEP)
• Spanish: Evite tratamientos innecesarios en la sala de emergencias

Vision Care for Children (AAPOS)

• There are several common vision tests and procedures that many children do not need.
• Plain English: Vision Care for Children (AAPOS)
• Spanish: Cuidado de la vista para los niños

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.
• Plain English: When it's Hard to Get Pregnant (ASRM)
• Spanish: Cuando es difícil embarazarse

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.
• Plain English: Which Dental Treatments are Right for You?
• Plain English: Which Dental Treatments are Right for You? (for printer)

X-Ray & Imaging

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.
• Plain English: Bone-Density Tests
• Spanish: Pruebas de Densidad de los Huesos

Brain Scans for Head Injuries (AMSSM)

• Brain scans are usually not helpful for a concussion.
• Plain English: Brain Scans for Head Injuries
• Spanish: Las tomografías del cerebro para las lesiones de la cabeza

Cardiac Imaging Stress Tests (ASNC)

• In some cases, especially in healthy people without chest pain, you should be cautious about the tests.
• English: Cardiac Imaging Stress Tests(ASNC)

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.
• Plain English: Chest X-rays Before Surgery (ACR)
• Spanish: Radiografía del tórax antes de una cirugía
• Video: Do You Need a Chest X-ray Before Surgery?

Clogged Neck Arteries (AAFP)

• Do you need a screening test for clogged neck arteries?
• Plain English: Clogged Neck Arteries (AAFP)
• Spanish: Arterias del cuello obstruidas

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.
• Plain English: CMR Tests for Chest Pain and Cardiac Screening (SCMR)
• Spanish: Pruebas de CMR para el dolor de pecho y examen cardíaco

CT Scans for Children With Head Injuries (AAP)

• For children with head injuries, a CT scan often is not needed.
• Plain English: CT Scans for Children With Head Injuries (AAP)
• Spanish: Tomografías (CT scans) para niños con lesiones en la cabeza

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.
• Plain English: CT Scans to Find Lung Cancer in Smokers (CHEST/ATS)
• Spanish: Tomografías (CT scans) para detectar cáncer de pulmón en fumadores

Echocardiogram Before Surgery (ASE)

• If you’re having surgery, you may wonder if you need an echocardiogram first.
• Plain English: Echocardiogram Before Surgery (ASE)
• Spanish: Un ecocardiograma antes de una cirugía

Echocardiograms for Valve Disease (ACC)

• When do you need an echocardiogram?
• Plain English: Echocardiograms for Valve Disease (ACC)
• Spanish: Ecocardiografía para valvulopatías cardíacas

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.
• Plain English: Echocardiography After Valve Surgery (STS)
• Spanish: Un ecocardiograma después de una cirugía para reemplazar una válvula cardíaca

Five Ways to be Smart About Back Pain (large poster)

• Don’t rush to MRIs, CT scans or X-rays for back pain.
• Plain English: Five Ways to be Smart About Back Pain
• Plain English: Five Ways to be Smart About Back Pain (for printer)

Five Ways to be Smart About Back Pain (small poster)

• Don’t rush to MRIs, CT scans or X-rays for back pain.
• Plain English: Five Ways to be Smart About Back Pain
• Plain English: Five Ways to be Smart About Back Pain (for printer)

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.
• Plain English: Heart Imaging Before Surgery (ACC)
• Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes del corazón antes de una cirugía

Heart Imaging Tests Before Surgery (ASNC)

• If you don't have heart problems, you probably don't need a heart test before an operation.
• Plain English: Heart imaging tests before surgery
• Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes del corazón antes de una cirugía

Heart Stress Tests Before Chest Surgery (STS)

• Stress tests usually aren’t helpful if you don’t have heart problems.
• Plain English: Heart Stress Tests Before Chest Surgery (STS)
• Spanish: Pruebas de esfuerzo del corazón antes de una cirugía de tórax

Imaging and Blood Tests in Early Breast Cancer (ASCO)

• When do cancer experts recommend imaging tests and tumor marker tests?
• Plain English: Imaging and Blood Tests in Early Breast Cancer (ASCO)
• Spanish: Pruebas de marcadores tumorales y de imágenes para el cáncer de seno

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?
• Plain English: Imaging Tests After a Heart Procedure (ACC)
• Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes después de un procedimiento cardíaco

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.
• Plain English: Imaging Tests for Back Pain
• Spanish: Pruebas radiológicas debido a dolor en la parte baja de la espalda

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.
• Plain English: Imaging Tests for Early Prostate Cancer (ASCO)
• Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes para el cáncer de próstata en su etapa temprana

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.
• Plain English: Imaging Tests for Headaches (ACR)
• Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes para dolores de cabeza

Imaging Tests for Heart Disease (ACC)

• If you are a healthy person without symptoms, you should think twice about having these tests.
• Plain English: Imaging Tests for Heart Disease (ACC)
• Spanish: Pruebas de Imágenes para la enfermedad cardíaca

Imaging Tests for Ovarian Cysts (ACR)

• Repetitive ultrasound exams may not be necessary.
• Plain English: Imaging Tests for Ovarian Cysts (ACR)
• Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes para quistes ováricos

Lower back pain (rack card)

• Does your lower back hurt? You probably don’t need an MRI, CT scan, or X-ray.
• 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)

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.
  
• Plain English: PET Scans After Cancer Treatment (ASCO)
• Spanish: Tomografías (PET scans) después del tratamiento contra el cáncer

Screening Tests for Brain Aneurysms (AANS)

• Screening healthy people for weak areas in the brain's blood vessels can do more harm than good.
• Plain English: Screening Tests for Brain Aneurysms
• Spanish: Pruebas de detección para aneurismas cerebrales

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.
• Plain English: Whole-Body Scans to Screen for Cancer (ACPM)
• Spanish: Tomografías de todo el cuerpo para detectar cáncer

Prescription Drugs

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.
• Plain English: Antibiotic Treatment in the Hospital (SHEA)
• Spanish: Tratamiento antibiótico en el hospital

Antibiotics for Ear Infections in Children (AAFP)

• In most cases of middle ear infection, antibiotics are not needed. Here's what to do instead.
• Plain English: Antibiotics for Ear Infections in Children (AAFP)
• Spanish: Antibióticos para infecciones del oído en niños

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.
• Plain English: Antibiotics for People With Catheters (AUA)
• Spanish: Antibióticos para personas con sondas

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.
• Plain English: Antibiotics for Pink Eye (AAO)
• Spanish: Antibióticos para la conjuntivitis

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.
• Plain English: Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Adults (IDSA)
• Plain English: Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Adults (lower literacy version)
• Spanish: Resfriados, influenza y otras enfermedades respiratorias en adultos
• Spanish: ¿Pueden los antibióticos ayudar a que usted se sienta mejor? (lower literacy version)

Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Children (AAP)

• Most of the time, children don't need antibiotics for sore throat, cough or runny nose.
• Plain English: Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Children (AAP)
• Spanish: Antibióticos para garganta irritada, tos o nariz tapada

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.
• Plain English: Antibiotics for Urinary Tract Infections in Older People (AGS)
• Spanish: Antibióticos para las infecciones de las vías urinarias en personas mayores

Antibiotics for Your Skin (AAD)

• There are risks to using antibiotics needlessly on your skin. And there are better ways to control eczema and help your skin heal.
• Plain English: Antibiotics for Your Skin (AAD)
• Spanish: Antibióticos para la piel

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.
• 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

Antibiotics: Will They Help You or Hurt You?

• Do you really need antibiotics? They can help you. But they also can harm you.
• 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)

Antipsychotic Drugs for People with Dementia (AGS)

• Powerful antipsychotic drugs should not be the first choice for people with dementia. Here's why.
• Plain English: Treating disruptive behavior in people with dementia
• Spanish: Tratamiento del comportamiento problemático en personas con demencia

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.
• Plain English: Cholesterol Drugs for People Over 75 (AMDA)
• Spanish: Medicamentos para el colesterol para personas mayores de 75 años

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.
• Plain English: Dietary Supplements to Prevent Heart Disease or Cancer (ACPM)
• Spanish: Suplementos dietéticos para prevenir la enfermedad cardíaca o el cáncer

Drugs for Migraine Headaches (AAN)

• Think twice about treating migraine attacks with opioids or butalbital.
• Plain English: Drugs for Migraine Headaches (AAN)
• Spanish: Tratamiento de migrañas

Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis (ACR)

• The older, "non-biologic" drugs are a better first choice for treating rheumatoid arthritis.
• Plain English: Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis (ACR)
• Spanish: Cómo tratar la artritis reumatoide

Drugs to Prevent Infection During Chemotherapy (ASCO)

• When do you need CSFs? When don't you need them?
• Plain English: Drugs to Prevent Infection During Chemotherapy (ASCO)
• Spanish: Medicamentos para aumentar los glóbulos blancos en pacientes con cáncer que reciben quimioterapia

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.
• 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)

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.
• 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)

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.
• Plain English: Medicines to Relieve Chronic Pain (ASA)
• Spanish: Medicinas para aliviar el dolor crónico

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.
• Plain English: Medicines to Treat Cancer (ASCO)
• Spanish: Medicinas para tratar el cáncer

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.
• 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)

Oral Antibiotics for Ear Infections (AAO-HNSF)

• Sometimes antibiotic eardrops are safer and more effective than oral antibiotics.
• Plain English: Oral Antibiotics for Ear Infections (AAO-HNSF)
• Spanish: Antibióticos orales para las infecciones del oído

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.
• Plain English: Painkiller Choices With Kidney or Heart Problems (ASN)
• Spanish: Medicinas para el dolor

Preventing Seizures After an Ischemic Stroke (AANS, CNS)

• Anti-seizure medicine is not usually necessary after an ischemic stroke.
• Plain English: Preventing Seizures After an Ischemic Stroke (AANS, CNS)
• Spanish: Prevención de convulsiones después de un ataque cerebral isquémico

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.
• Plain English: Sleeping Pills for Children With Insomnia (AASM)
• Spanish: Evite dar somníferos a los niños con insomnio

Sleeping Pills for Insomnia (AASM)

• Sleeping pills are often not the best option for insomnia. Here's what you need to know.
• Plain English: Sleeping Pills for Insomnia (AASM)
• Spanish: Las pastillas para dormir para el insomnio

Sleeping Pills for Insomnia and Anxiety in Older People (AGS)

• Older adults usually should try other non-drug treatments first, for insomnia and anxiety.
• Plain English: Sleeping Pills for Insomnia and Anxiety in Older People (AGS)
• Spanish: Insomnio y ansiedad en personas mayores

Supplements for Osteoarthritis (AAOS)

• The popular supplements glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate do not help relieve arthritic knees.
• Plain English: Supplements for Osteoarthritis (AAOS)
• Spanish: El tratamiento de la osteoartritis de la rodilla

Testosterone for Erection Problems (AUA)

• Unless you have other symptoms of low testosterone, you should think twice about the treatment. Here's why.
• Plain English: Testosterone for Erection Problems (AUA)
• Spanish: Tratamiento para los problemas de erección

Think Your Child Needs Antibiotics?

• Taking antibiotics when they aren’t needed can cause dangerous side effects.
• 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)

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.
• Plain English: Treating Frequent Headaches With Pain Relievers (AHS)
• Spanish: Tratamiento de dolores de cabeza frecuentes con analgésicos

Treating Heartburn and GERD (AGA)

• In most cases of heartburn a PPI isn't necessary.
• Plain English: Treating Heartburn and GERD (AGA)

Treating Sinusitis (AAAAI)

• Millions of people are prescribed antibiotics each year for sinusitis.
• Plain English: Treating Sinusitis
• Spanish: Cómo tratar la sinusitis
• Video: Para tratar la sinusitis
• Video: Treating sinusitis

Treating Sinusitis (AAFP)

• Millions of people are prescribed antibiotics each year for sinusitis.
• Plain English: Treating Sinusitis (AAFP)
• Spanish: Cómo tratar la sinusitis
• Video: Treating Sinusitis
• Video: Para tratar la sinusitis

Treating Sleep Problems (APA)

• If you have insomnia, antipsychotic drugs should not be the first choice of treatment.
• Plain English: Treating Sleep Problems (APA)
• Spanish: Tratamiento de problemas del sueño

Healthy Videos

Watch the informative videos below to help you make better health care choices for you and your family in these three important areas.

Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is the second most common cancer killer, but screening tests can detect the disease early and save lives. Colon cancer screening can find precancerous polyps so they can be removed before cancer develops.

Video: This is Personal (30 seconds)

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is called the silent killer – don’t be a victim! Learn how you can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke by controlling your high blood pressure.

Video: Treating High Blood Pressure (3 minutes)

Video: High Blood Pressure Basics (90 seconds)

Immunization – Children

Immunization protects your baby from 14 serious childhood diseases he or she could get before the age of 2.

Video:  The Immunization Baby Book (4 minutes)