In an average new patient visit, I may order some tests: Eg: EEG, MRI, 2D Echo and Labs). I order it through the ordering system, which sends a message into my inbox, which I save to the chart immediately so that my assistant knows that the orders have been done. This is not a problem.
The test results start pouring in. Multiple faxes for Labs come in piecemeal. MRI, EEG and 2D echo results come in independently. These tests come in over a two week period, that is if the patient schedules all the tests in time. Some nervous patients start calling the moment a test is done. I ask the patients not to call for each result until the two week period.
My question to you is about what works in your practice in the most effective, time and manpower saving organization system that ensures that all these multiple lab faxes actually have all the results of the tests that were asked for, before you have to review it. My dream would be for all the tests to be presented to me once to review after all the results are in. But, what is the most effective way for the the staff to achieve this without having an important result sitting in the inbox for a week to be reviewed?
Thank you.
PS: I have one and a half person working for me. Billing is outsourced.
