[Paediatricians Report an Increased Demand for Diagnostic Tests for Reassurance].

OBJECTIVE:Test decisions depend on the context in which health care is delivered. We interviewed paediatricians about perceived societal developments and their influence on diagnostic testing.DESIGN:Qualitative interview study.METHODS:Semi-structured in-depth interviews with 20 practicing Dutch paediatricians.RESULTS:Paediatricians associated societal developments, such as decreased risk acceptance, with perceived pressure from parents to perform tests. They were motivated to restrict unnecessary tests to avoid harming the child.CONCLUSION:Besides motivation and effort of health care providers, appropriate testing requires system-level actions, such as counteracting a culture of blame and considering societal interests in guideline recommendations.