Term: Discretionary Procedures

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Glossary Definition

Last Updated: 2007-09-26

Definition:

"Those that may nor be necessary at all, those for which there is no general agreement about indications (e.g. hysterectomy for non-malignant conditions of the uterus), and those for which alternative, non-surgical treatment options are available (e.g. varicose vein ligation and stripping)".

Related concepts 

• Discretionary, Non-discretionary and Intermediate Procedures

Related terms 

• Discretionary Nature of Services
• Non-Discretionary Procedures

References 

• Gentleman JF, Vayda E, Parsons GF, Walsh MN. Surgical rates in sub-provincial areas across Canada - rankings of 39 procedures in order of variation. Can J Surg 1996;39(5):361-367. [Abstract] (View)