To be effective, the procedure must be accurate. Measuring diagnostic accuracy involves
sensitivity and specificity, likelihood ratios, odds ratio, and predictive values (Šimundić,
n.d.). “Measures of diagnostic accuracy are extremely sensitive to the design of the study”
(Šimundić, n.d.). Most tests are made for a specific diagnosis, so they would not result in a
better diagnosis if the patient tests negative. When it comes to machines like MRI, CT
scan, or x ray, each can be used to find multiple diagnosis, and some are preferred for the
type of injury/problem over the others. When a problem is more accurately diagnosed, the
likelihood of a better cure is high. The faster the diagnosis, the faster they can start
treatment, faster they get better. On the other hand, for certain conditions such as
lymphomas/leukemias, sarcoidosis, osteoarthritis, and LDL cholesterol, it can be better to
wait for evidence-based testing and treatment (Shmerling, 2021).
Reference:
Shmerling, R. (2021, January 28). Are early detection and treatment always best? -
Harvard Health. Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/are-early-
detection-and-treatment-always-best-2021012821816
Šimundić, A.-M. (n.d.). Measures of Diagnostic Accuracy: Basic Definitions - PMC.
PubMed Central (PMC). Retrieved May 26, 2022, from
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4975285/
