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Clinical Utility

Meaning

Clinical utility refers to the practical value and usefulness of a diagnostic test, therapeutic intervention, or medical procedure in improving patient outcomes or guiding clinical management decisions. It assesses whether the information gained or the action taken ultimately leads to tangible, positive changes in a patient’s health, prognosis, or quality of life. High clinical utility implies that the benefit outweighs the potential risks and costs of the intervention. This metric is crucial for responsible healthcare practice.