Choosing wisely often means less, not more
Helping people and their health care professionals make smart choices about healthcare options is the aim of a global initiative, called Choosing Wisely. The Choosing Wisely campaign aims to help cut down the number of unnecessary tests, treatments and procedures carried out by health professionals. In modern medicine there are tests and procedures to diagnose and treat almost every illness, but they don’t always equal better care. The goal of Choosing Wisely is to help consumers make more informed choices about healthcare and avoid asking for treatments that will provide little benefit or could do more harm than good. For example, X-rays and CT scans expose patients to potentially cancercausing radiation and while they can highlight issues that require further investigation, sometimes they amount to an unnecessary dose of radiation. Research published this year by the Institute of Environmental Science and Research reported a large number of antibiotics are being prescribed where there’s no clear benefit, such as for treating seasonal colds and flu, which are caused by viruses, not bacteria. Viruses are unaffected by antibiotics. Antibiotics can have harmful side effects and make you vulnerable to new infections shortly after you finish a course, which is one of many reasons why you shouldn’t take them against advice.
14 | Spring 2017
Unnecessary prescribing of antibiotics is a globally significant issue.
Overuse is a major factor in the development of antibiotic resistance and the alarming rise in so-called ‘superbugs’. This is predicted to contribute to the death of more than 10 million people worldwide every year by 2050. It’s never been more important to Choose Wisely.
13-19 November is World Antibiotic Awareness Week. The theme is ‘seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional’ health.govt.nz/ antibioticawareness
Through Choosing Wisely, health professionals are being encouraged to discuss the risks and benefits of these tests with patients, so patients can make an informed choice. Derek Sherwood, Ophthalmologist and Chair of the Council of Medical Colleges, says that each situation is unique, so healthcare professionals and patients should have a conversation to work out an appropriate healthcare plan together. In Canterbury, resources will be sent out ahead of World Antibiotic Awareness Week to support clinicians in starting that conversation. Look out for posters in general practices and pharmacies that explain the issue of antibiotic resistance and prompt people to talk to their health professional, and listen to their advice. To find out more go to choosingwisely.org.nz or for a fun video: search for Choosing wisely parody The site includes information for patients and evidence and resources for doctors and others in a health care team. ■