Page 38 - Avoiding Surgical Mishaps Part 1

SVMIC Avoiding Surgical Mishaps: Dissecting the Risks

patient’s medical records, your practice should have a standard

procedure for referral-related communication that clearly
defines everyone’s responsibilities. Consistency will make the

process run more smoothly, benefitting both patients and the
practice.

While primary care physicians have a responsibility to make

clear and appropriate referrals to specialists, there is an equally
important responsibility on behalf of the specialist to provide

clear and timely feedback.

• Communicate the results of the consultation to the

referring physician in a timely manner, including an outline
of the specific plan of action you recommend. Verbally

communicate urgent and/or unexpected findings as soon
as possible after the consultation.

• Communicate your specific plan of action to the referring

physician to enhance continuity of care.

• Be sure to include any medication changes, tests

recommended and performed, as well as the results and
interpretation of those tests.

• If the patient refuses your advice or recommendations,
document this in the record and convey it to the referring

physician.

• If your plan involves continued treatment but you are

signing off of the case, be sure you communicate with the
referring physician to ensure the patient can obtain the

appropriate treatment.

• If the referring physician has asked you to assume the
care of the patient, indicate in writing whether or not you

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