In the field of preventive medicine and health care, the concept of high-value medical care is becoming increasingly relevant. Especially during this time of year when we start planning health checks for the whole family, it is important to be aware of high-value practices. This approach prioritizes those practices and tests that generate clear and measurable benefits for patient well-being. Instead of automatic general check-ups, the most effective method is to conduct a preventive interview, in which the doctor personally evaluates the patient's risks.
In this way, only those tests that will truly bring a concrete benefit are indicated. Another fundamental pillar of high-value medicine is the attention provided by trained professionals, such as clinicians, family doctors, gynecologists, or pediatricians. These specialists accompany the patient throughout their life, offering a comprehensive view of their health and helping them make informed decisions regarding the studies and treatments that are truly necessary. By prioritizing what adds value and discarding what does not, a smarter, more efficient, and humane medical care system is built.
This reflects the essence of high-value medicine: providing care based on science, respect for the patient, and their overall well-being. The importance of follow-up with a trusted doctor is crucial to ensure personalized and effective care. As Karin Kopitowski mentions, 'Almost no preventive practice is recommended to be done annually.' Health monitoring should focus on practices that truly make a significant difference in patients' lives.
Its goal is to avoid the overuse of studies and procedures that have no real impact on health or that could even be harmful. Far from promoting 'overdiagnosis' that can be counterproductive, this model seeks to optimize medical resources and ensure effective and beneficial interventions. 'Sometimes, fewer studies mean better care and more health,' says Dr. Kopitowski.
For years, initiatives like Choosing Wisely and Less is More have promoted the application of high-value practices, honoring the principle of 'first, do no harm.' Unlike the prevalent idea that more studies equate to better prevention, specialists emphasize that what is essential is to opt for evidence-based interventions, tailored to each individual's needs. In this approach, less is more, but only when it comes to what does not add value, explained Dolores Arceo, head of the Family and Community Medicine Service at Hospital Italiano.
A clear example is cancer screening, such as mammograms and colonoscopies, which can be highly beneficial at certain ages or with specific risk factors, but should not be conducted routinely in all cases, as it could lead to unnecessary diagnoses, anxiety, and avoidable treatments.
