Recommendations for Clinical Biochemistry

Choosing Wisely is a global initiative that seeks to encourage both doctors and patients to have a conversation about the value of treatments. The below recommendations for clinical biochemistry are the result of a Choosing Wisely consultation involving the College.  

1. Unless a patient is at increased risk of prostate cancer because of race or family history, PSA testing does not necessarily lead to a longer life.

Patient information/decision aids

Evidence/guidance

2. Calcium testing is used when there are symptoms of kidney stones, bone disease or nerve-related disorders; but it is not necessary to test less that three months after the previous test except in acute conditions, during major surgery or in critically ill patients when tests should not be made more often than every 48 hours.
3. Use statins in appropriate patients.

Evidence/guidance

Patient information/decision aids