%0 Journal Article %T Clinical Management of Low Vitamin D: A Scoping Review of PhysiciansĄŻ Practices %A John Epling %A Matthew Hulver %A Michelle Rockwell %A Vivica Kraak %J Archive of "Nutrients". %D 2018 %R 10.3390/nu10040493 %X The role of vitamin D in the prevention and treatment of non-skeletal health issues has received significant media and research attention in recent years. Costs associated with clinical management of low vitamin D (LVD) have increased exponentially. However, no clear evidence supports vitamin D screening to improve health outcomes. Authoritative bodies and professional societies do not recommend population-wide vitamin D screening in community-dwelling adults who are asymptomatic or at low risk of LVD. To assess patterns of physiciansĄŻ management of LVD in this conflicting environment, we conducted a scoping review of three electronic databases and the gray literature. Thirty-eight records met inclusion criteria and were summarized in an evidence table. Thirteen studies published between 2006 and 2015 across seven countries showed a consistent increase in vitamin D lab tests and related costs. Many vitamin D testing patterns reflected screening rather than targeted testing for individuals at high risk of vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency. Interventions aimed at managing inappropriate clinical practices related to LVD were effective in the short term. Variability and controversy were pervasive in many aspects of vitamin D management, shining a light on physiciansĄŻ practices in the face of uncertainty. Future research is needed to inform better clinical guidelines and to assess implementation practices that encourage evidence-based management of LVD in adult populations %K vitamin D %K 25-hydroxyvitamin-D %K 25-OH-D %K low vitamin D %K screening %K physician practices %K low value care %K test overutilization %U https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5946278/