Annals of internal medicine
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Helical computed tomography (CT) is a readily available tool for diagnosing pulmonary embolism (PE); however, its role in the management of patients with clinically suspected PE has not been fully established. ⋯ In patients with suspected PE, helical CT can be used safely as the primary diagnostic test to rule out PE. Serial compression ultrasonography has limited additional value.
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The health implications of regional differences in Medicare spending are unknown. ⋯ Regional differences in Medicare spending are largely explained by the more inpatient-based and specialist-oriented pattern of practice observed in high-spending regions. Neither quality of care nor access to care appear to be better for Medicare enrollees in higher-spending regions.
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The health implications of regional differences in Medicare spending are unknown. ⋯ Medicare enrollees in higher-spending regions receive more care than those in lower-spending regions but do not have better health outcomes or satisfaction with care. Efforts to reduce spending should proceed with caution, but policies to better manage further spending growth are warranted.
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Studies of hospitalized patients identify safety as a significant problem, but few data are available regarding injuries occurring after discharge. Patients may be vulnerable during this transition period. ⋯ Adverse events occurred frequently in the peridischarge period, and many could potentially have been prevented or ameliorated with simple strategies.