Why Do People Want Unnecessary Healthcare?

Ever wondered why people sometimes ask for healthcare they don't really need? This kind of care is called "low-value care. " It wastes health resources and costs a lot of money. Studies on why people want this care are scattered and often ignored. Researchers decided to gather all this information in one place to understand better. Low-value care includes services that don't help patients much or could even harm them. Instead of focusing on benefits, people might be drawn to unnecessary treatments. This could be because they fear missing out or want to be extra sure. Patients may also trust their doctors too much and agree to unnecessary tests or procedures. But it’s not just patients; doctors play a role too. Sometimes, healthcare providers may suggest extra tests or treatments to avoid lawsuits. Patients sometimes feel like more care is always better, even if it's not needed. Understanding why people want low-value care can help improve healthcare. It’s important to communicate better with patients about what care they truly need. This can make healthcare more efficient and cost-effective. Low-value care isn't just a problem for patients; it affects everyone. Fixing this requires a team effort from patients, doctors, and healthcare systems. Better education and clearer communication can go a long way.