[Choosing Wisely. A model for the German health care system?]

Abstract

Background: In 2011 the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) started the Choosing Wisely campaign.

Materials and methods: The goal was to establish top 5 lists by the medical societies to reduce diagnostic and therapeutic procedures which are not necessary or are potentially harmful, and thereby lower health care costs. The lists contributed by the American Geriatric Society and the American Medical Director Association in 2013 will be discussed.

Conclusion: At first glance, the idea seems simple, but numerous questions remain. Transferring this process to Germany appears theoretically possible, but various aspects of the health care system should be taken into consideration.