Use of laboratory tests in out-of-hours services in Norway.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the use of laboratory tests and which factors influence the use in Norwegian out-of-hours (OOH) services.


METHODS
Cross-sectional observational study.


METHODS
Out-of-hours services in Norway.


METHODS
All electronic reimbursement claims from doctors at OOH services in Norway in 2007.


METHODS
Number of contacts and laboratory tests in relation to patients' and doctors' characteristics.


RESULTS
1 323 281 consultations and home visits were reported. Laboratory tests were used in 31% of the contacts. C-reactive protein (CRP) was the most common test (27% of all contacts), especially in respiratory illness (55%) and infants (44%). Electrocardiogram and rapid strep A test were used in 4% of the contacts. Young doctors, female doctors, and doctors in central areas used laboratory tests more often.


CONCLUSIONS
CRP is extensively used in OOH services, especially by young and inexperienced doctors, and in central areas. Further investigations are required to see if this extensive use of CRP is of importance for correct diagnosis and treatment.
National Centre for Emergency Primary Health Care, Uni Research, Bergen, Norway. ingrid.rebnord@isf.uib.no
Ingrid Keilegavlen
IK
Rebnord
Hogne
H
Sandvik
Steinar
S
Hunskaar
D000328:Adult; D039602:After-Hours Care / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D000367:Age Factors; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000032:analysis; D002097:C-Reactive Protein / Q000032:analysis; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003955:Diagnostic Tests, Routine / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009664:Norway; D019095:Point-of-Care Systems / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians' / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012737:Sex Factors
D015415:Biomarkers; D002097:C-Reactive Protein