Why do general practitioners request rheumatoid factor? A study of symptoms, requesting patterns and patient outcome

Abstract

Although this is a locally based study, we believe the conclusions would be applicable to all laboratories and GPs undertaking these tests. RF requests are made on valid clinical grounds by GPs, but there may be an over-reliance on the results as regards referral behaviour. If patients were referred on clinical grounds, this would significantly lengthen consultants' waiting lists.