[More adequate use of laboratory services--economical aspects].

Background: There has been a substantial increase in reimbursement for outpatient laboratory services in recent years. This article gives an overview of the use of such laboratory services and discusses measures for improved efficiency.

Material And Methods: We have analysed reimbursement to the specialist health care for the period 2002-04.

[Appropriate use of laboratory tests--medical aspects].

Background: There has been a large increase in the use and costs of laboratory tests during recent years. Several reports have indicated excessive and inappropriate use. The purpose of this study was to assess the use of public laboratory services within clinical chemistry in two Norwegian health regions.