From: Dr. Neal Pinckney (hnl04-159.gst.aloha.net)
Subject: Re: Thallium Stress Test?
Date: May 15, 2000 at 9:54 am PST

In Reply to: Thallium Stress Test? posted by jennifer on May 15, 2000 at 6:24 am:

If you have faith and confidence in your personal physician, can discuss your concerns freely and are given clear and complete answers to your questions, then a recommended test is usually in order.

There is the reality, however, that in some cases, tests are recommended as part of the "CYA" (cover your ass) syndrome that has become part of health care. So many lawsuits have alleged that the the patient would have been better served if only the doctor had ordered 'x' test, that it has been found that some tests may have been ordered just to protect against those law suits.

The thallium stress test has been found to detect coronary artery blockages and other heart problems that were not found in EKGs, sonograms, or regular treadmill tests. Although it is invasive in the
injection of a small amount of very short half-life nuclear material, it is a safe and often life-saving diagnostic tool.

When uncertainty about a procedure causes concern, it is usually best to get a second opinion - from a physician who has reviewed all the patient's records.