Possibilities and perils: The new era of direct-access diagnostic tests

The once-distinct borders between the patient, physician, and diagnostic laboratory are being blurred. Direct-access diagnostic testing, also known as direct-to-consumer testing, makes laboratory diagnostics available to the patient without a physician's referral. Some in the medical community are excited about the arrangement, which could streamline office traffic and cut costs, while others cite as dangers the misunderstandings of uneducated consumers and insurance issues.