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Overdiagnosis in Primary Care

A practical resource pack for GPs and primary care teams in Sutton Training Hub and South West London Training Hubs  helping clinicians navigate uncertainty, avoid unnecessary harm, and support shared decision-making.

WHAT YOU'LL FIND HERE

Key Resources & Reading

Curated clinical resources, key experts, research papers and condition-specific guidance on overdiagnosis.

Self -Directed Learning pack

Structured learning modules, consultation tools, e-learning, podcasts and reflective practice activities.

What is Overdiagnosis?

GPs are often the first point of contact following a borderline test or screening result.

GPs are often the first point of contact following a borderline test or screening result. Shared decision-making around screening and testing is central to addressing overdiagnosis.

Overdiagnosis occurs when a person is diagnosed with a condition that would never have caused them symptoms or harm during their lifetime. It is different from misdiagnosis and overtreatment - which often follows overdiagnosis but is a separate issue.

It commonly results from expanded diagnostic criteria, advances in detection technology, and screening of asymptomatic populations. The harms are real: unnecessary treatment, patient anxiety, labelling effects, and wasted NHS resources.

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