Cost of Medicine: Are High-Tech Medical Devices and Treatments Always Worth It?

Some types of medical imaging are overused, experts say.

Patients, too, can play a role. There are some sources of comparative information for patients. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association conducts effectiveness reviews of technology through its Technology Evaluation Center, all of which are available on its website. The Cochrane Collaboration also publishes effectiveness reviews. And you can start by talking with your doctor when faced with a test, procedure, or anything else. "If you have a physician who isn't willing to give you a good reason why to do something, you've got a problem," says Bynum. The latest technology or test may be exactly what you need—or there may be a more effective and less pricey alternative. "Technology is great," says Redberg. "But all technology is not great for all people."

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