The time-efficiency principle: time as the key diagnostic strategy in primary care

Published Date: 27th March 2013

Publication Authors: Irving G, Holden JD

Abstract
The test and retest opportunity afforded by reviewing a patient over time substantially increases the total gain in certainty when making a diagnosis in low-prevalence settings (the time-efficiency principle). This approach safely and efficiently reduces the number of patients who need to be formally tested in order to make a correct diagnosis for a person. Time, in terms of observed disease trajectory, provides a vital mechanism for achieving this task. It remains the best strategy for delivering near-optimal diagnoses in low-prevalence settings and should be used to its full advantage.

Irving, G; Holden, J. (2013). The time-efficiency principle: time as the key diagnostic strategy in primary care. Family Practice. 30 (4), 386-389

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