Diagnostic Testing Thresholds

In this Core EM MESS Mini episode, we break down the critical concept of diagnostic decision thresholds. Learn how to integrate pre-test probability, likelihood ratios, and post-test probability into your clinical strategy. We discuss:

• What are testing thresholds and treatment thresholds?
• How do these thresholds guide when to test, treat, or observe?
• Why every diagnostic test needs a management strategy in place before ordering.
• The role of patient values, test characteristics, and disease prognosis in shaping your decisions.

Mastering these concepts will refine your diagnostic reasoning and ensure tests meaningfully impact patient care.