Latest Publications
Patient, hospital and environmental costs of unnecessary bloodwork: capturing the triple bottom line of inappropriate care in general surgery patients
Karina Spoyalo, Annie Lalande, Chantelle Rizan, Sophia Park, Janet Simons, Philip Dawe, Carl J Brown, Robert Lillywhite, Andrea J MacNeil
Patients with uncomplicated acute surgical conditions were retrospectively evaluated for unnecessary bloodwork according to the triple bottom line, quantifying the impacts on patients, healthcare costs and greenhouse gas emissions. The carbon footprint of common laboratory investigations was estimated using PAS2050 methodology, including emissions generated from the production, transport, processing and disposal of consumable goods and reagents. We found considerable overuse of laboratory investigationsresulting in unnecessary burden to patients, hospitals and the environment. This study identifies an opportunity for resource stewardship and exemplifies a comprehensive approach to quality improvement.