Inappropriate testing has long been recognized as a drain on the limited resources of healthcare due to tests being under- and over-utilized against a backdrop of expanding workloads with several potential demand management solutions existing. The definition of inappropriate testing is varied but the cost to the patient, healthcare provider and existing resources is rarely considered outside the context of loss revenue and workload. Of paramount importance is the safety of the patient and ensuring they get optimal care thereby getting the right test done at the right time. The role of the laboratory is to also ensure that resources are not wasted to ensure that they can provide a safe, quality and sustainable service within the financial and service constraints. An awareness of the consequences of inappropriate testing in the request cycle is essential to best manage these limited resources in the future.