Page 17 - 2022 Risk Basics - Systems

SVMIC Risk Basics: Systems

If a patient suffers consequences from not receiving the lab test that you
order or from not seeing the consultant to whom he/she was referred,

you could be named in a medical malpractice lawsuit. Patients may fail to
complete ordered tests for a variety of reasons that are unrelated to their

desire to adhere to the treatment plan. These may include:

• Concern about insurance coverage and reimbursement

• Transportation or childcare issues

• Fear of the potential diagnosis

• Lack of understanding about the importance of the ordered test or

referral

It is the provider’s responsibility to ensure the patient fully understands

the significance of the ordered test or recommended referral as well as
the potential consequences of delays in treatment.

There should be an established system for tracking patients who miss

follow-up appointments. If a patient misses or cancels a follow-up
appointment, it should be documented and investigated. Appropriate

efforts should be made to contact the patient and reschedule the
appointment in situations where the patient may suffer if treatment is

delayed or where the treatment or medication must be closely monitored
(discussed in detail in the “Handling Missed Appointments” section of

this course).

Additionally, when a patient referred by another physician fails to present

for the first appointment to establish care, it is recommended that the
referring physician be notified. All communication to the patient and the

referring physician should be documented.

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