Patient-initiated blood tests and imaging are becoming easier to access, raising questions about clinical oversight and the downstream impact on the system [Image: alashi on iStock (edited)]

Private providers are selling wellness scans and direct-toconsumer tests as a way to “get ahead of the drama”. Orna McGinn says the evidence tells a different story

References

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4. O’Sullivan J, Muntinga T, Grigg S, et al. Prevalence and outcomes of incidental imaging findings: umbrella review. BMJ. 2018;361:k2387. doi:10.1136/bmj.k2387

5. Ganguli I, Simpkin AL, Lupo C, et al. Cascades of care after incidental findings in a US national survey of physicians. JAMA Network Open. 2019;2(10):e1913325.

6. Te Tiratū Iwi Māori Partnership Board. Priority 6: Key insights – identification and treatment pathways for cancers. June 2025.

7. Canadian Institute for Health Information; Choosing Wisely Canada. Unnecessary care in Canada. Ottawa: CIHI; 2017.