Evaluations done to provide information on health and to assist in identification of a condition or diagnosis of disease or injury.

Medical tests are used to provide information to health care providers about a person's health status. Some tests require the collection of a specimen, as in a urine test, blood test, or biopsy. Some tests, such as an ear canal check or assessment of the heart and lung function using a stethoscope, are simple and non-invasive. Others, such as χ rays and ultrasound tests, require a visit to a special laboratory, and may or may not carry risks and side effects.

Health care personnel are required by law to obtain what is referred to as "informed consent" before performing any invasive medical test or procedure. This means that the health care professional must describe the test or procedure that he or she is suggesting the patient...