Health care costs have been rising in the United States for years. One way to cut down on these costs is to limit unnecessary treatments and tests. They are sometimes called low-value care. 

A large part of health care spending goes toward services that have little effect on health and can expose patients to added harm. By some estimates, as much as $340 billion is spent annually for unnecessary treatments, tests and services.

More care isn’t always better. It’s really about getting the right care. 

The solution? Don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor. 

What is low-value care?

A few examples of low-value care include imaging, such as X-rays for new-onset acute low-back pain, and vitamin D testing in general populations*. These tests offer little to no patient benefit in many situations. 

A few other examples of this type of care: 

• Use of antibiotics.
• Opioids for long-term pain management.
• Unnecessary imaging that exposes patients to radiation.
• Preoperative screenings for low-risk surgeries for patients with no risk factors.

What is the harm of this kind of care? 

These types of tests can result in follow-up tests or procedures, leading to higher out-of-pocket costs for patients. 

This isn’t just expensive for your health plan. It costs you, too. Patients pay 17 percent to 33 percent of this kind of unnecessary care. 
Sometimes these services create complications, and there are real patient safety concerns. Too much care can sometimes be dangerous. For example, unnecessary X-rays lead to increased exposure to radiation. 

And when time is hard to come by, this care is a waste of time for patients and their care teams. 

What can I do? 

For members, the key takeaway is to become engaged and active with your health care decisions. Ask questions any time a doctor orders a test or procedure. 

Sometimes patients rely on the expertise of the physician to tell them what their course of action should be. But by asking questions and being informed, you can have better control over your care. 

Here are five questions to ask:  

• Do I really need this test or procedure? 
• What are the risks and side effects? 
• Are there simpler, safer options? 
• What happens if I don’t do anything? 
• How much does it cost, and will my insurance pay for it? 

The goal is for you to end up with the right amount of care — not too much and not too little. 

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