Page 22 - 2020 Risk Reduction Series Effective Systems_Part 1_Flipbook

SVMIC Risk Reduction Series: Effective Systems

Electronic Tracking System

If you are using an electronic system to track
tests that you have ordered or referrals that

you have scheduled, you need to ensure that
the system can identify which test results

have not yet been received in your office,
without having to look at each individual

medical record. The best system for
electronically tracking labs and diagnostics is a system that will

alert the ordering provider or office staff that a test result is
outstanding or a consultation report has not been received. The

alert may appear in the form of a flag on the EHR home screen
or a message in his/her task box or email. The provider can then

follow up appropriately which may include asking a staff
member to contact the patient.

Electronic health records should be equipped with an electronic

order tracking system that assists the practice with tracking
labs, diagnostic tests, and other orders. The EHR may also have

an alert or reminder component to assist in tracking other tasks
such as referrals, screenings, and appointments.

Some EHRs interface with labs, imaging centers, hospitals, and
other vendors. In the absence of an interface which allows for

real-time access, ensure manual alerts or reminders are set to
remind the physician of outstanding orders or tasks to close the

loop.

In order to accomplish this, there are different methods which
can be employed. One method is to use a system which allows

the provider and staff to view all of the tests ordered within
a specific time frame on a single screen. In those systems,

Page 22