Reflex Testing

As the number of tests is rapidly increases, more and more clinicians are seeking guidance on test selection and interpretation. Physicians can now request a laboratory evaluation of an abnormal test value or a specific clinical sign or symptom, and the MGH Clinical Laboratories can perform an appropriate series of tests in a sequence based upon the results of tests.

The goals of reflex testing are:

• Support physician decision making

• Decrease time to diagnosis

• Reduce patient length of stay

• Decrease laboratory utilization

Please click here for a list of reflex testing algorithms in use at the MGH.

Reflex testing occurs when initial test results are positive or outside normal parameters and indicate that a second related test is medically appropriate.

These are the key requirements for the use of algorithms:

• Content of algorithm is medically appropriate

• Algorithm is used only when needed

• Rules are continually available to physician

• Physician has the final option