2023-06-05 11:26:45
A low-threshold prostate consultation, with an associated estimate of the risk of prostate cancer, can reduce the number of referrals to secondary care by more than two-thirds. This leads to lower healthcare costs, Rotterdam researchers write in BJU International.
Men who are concerned about their risk of prostate cancer can request a determination of the PSA in the blood through their GP. But because such a provision is often not indicated and is not included in the NHG guidelines, a referral is required. This leads to excessive testing, which leads to high healthcare costs and a high workload in hospitals.
“Implementation of a simple prediction model in a primary care diagnostic center can reduce the number of referrals”
PhD candidate in urology Renée Hogenhout
prediction model
To combat this excessive testing, researchers at Erasmus MC developed a prediction model that provides a risk estimate for prostate cancer based on data from the history, physical examination and ultrasound of the prostate. As of 2014, this Prostate Guide is or Rotterdam Prostate Cancer Risk Calculator (RPCRC) implemented in the so-called prostate consultation. This is an accessible visit to the Rotterdam diagnostic center STAR-SHL. Patients with a request for early diagnosis of prostate cancer can come here within a week to complete the Prostate Guide together with a doctor. The patient and GP receive the results immediately.
Comparative research
Where
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