Page 43 - 2020 Risk Reduction Series Effective Systems_Part 1_Flipbook

SVMIC Risk Reduction Series: Effective Systems

referred to the physician for direction. Regardless, it is important

to note that all scheduling should allow enough time for the staff
to render safe, high-quality patient care/services consistent

with the office’s mission, goals, and policies. Take a look at the
following case example.

CASE STUDY

Maria Diaz, a 37-year-old pregnant female with a history

of multiple miscarriages, cardiac issues, and gestational
diabetes was seen by Dr. Bobby Radley, an OB at Women’s

Wellness Group.

At her first prenatal visit, her blood glucose was 148 with

+4 glucose in her urine. At 13 weeks gestation, her blood
glucose was 239, and she was referred to a maternal fetal

specialist, who started her on insulin and began diabetic
education. Throughout the pregnancy, Ms. Diaz had three

normal ultrasounds and weekly fetal non-stress tests
performed. Midway through her pregnancy, her insurance

coverage lapsed.

Seven days before her due date she presented to the
emergency department with increased blood pressure,

swelling, and heart palpitations. She was admitted by
Dr. Richard Williams, a hospitalist, and evaluated by Dr.

Morgan Patel, a cardiologist who found no acute etiology
for her symptoms. Nursing notes indicated fetal heart

tones were detected at each shift, but no non-stress test,
fetal evaluation, or evaluation for pre-eclampsia was done.

Before she was discharged, Dr. Radley requested she come

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