recall rate
The percentage of screening participants who require additional testing or follow-up after initial screening.
Full Definition
Recall rate is a key performance indicator in cancer screening programs that measures the proportion of screened individuals who are called back for additional testing or evaluation following their initial screening examination. A high recall rate may indicate low specificity and can lead to increased anxiety, costs, and unnecessary procedures. Conversely, a very low recall rate might suggest missed cancers. Optimal recall rates vary by screening modality and are often established through quality assurance programs and international benchmarks.
Usage
Usage note: Usually expressed as a percentage. Lower rates are generally preferred but must be balanced with adequate sensitivity.
In Context
- "The mammography program maintained a recall rate of 4.2%, within acceptable quality standards." — Quality assurance report
- "Elevated recall rates may indicate a need for additional radiologist training or equipment calibration." — Program evaluation