Page 31 - 2021 Risk Reduction Series - Communication Part One

SVMIC Risk Reduction Series: Communication

Patient Risk Level Action Required

No action may be required, or a single phone
call or letter outlining the consequences
Minimal risk of failure to receive needed treatment in a

(e.g., a well timely manner may be sufficient. It may be

checkup) necessary to warn the patient of possible
discharge from the medical practice for
repeatedly missed appointments.

Moderate risk

such as those who A more concerted effort may be required.
need ongoing Usually two documented phone calls and a
monitoring first-class letter outlining the consequences

or treatment of failure to receive needed treatment in a

(e.g., well- timely manner should be adequate.
controlled chronic
conditions)

Two documented phone call attempts and
High risk

(e.g., patient with a first-class letter along with a certified
letter outlining the consequences of failure
grave condition or to receive needed treatment in a timely
serious diagnostic manner should be adequate. If the condition

results requiring is urgent or emergent, it may be reasonable
additional testing to contact the patient’s emergency contact

or treatment)
on file.

All efforts to educate the patient and complete the follow-up

should always be documented in the medical record. If letters
are sent, they should be in clear, reader-friendly language at a

fourth grade reading level in order to be understandable and

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