Improving Referral Efficiency: Implementing an Electronic Workflow for Timely Patient Follow-up
Authors
Cuellar, Jennifer
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- Embargoed until 2025-11-10
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Abstract
Problem & Purpose: The outpatient infusion center (OIC) at a mid-sized suburban hospital faced delays in processing fax referrals, often missing the 72-hour Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) follow-up benchmark due to fax document issues like manual handling and illegibility. In 2023, the OIC met this benchmark 75% of the time, especially during unit coordinator turnover. This project aimed for 100% patient follow-up within 72 hours by implementing an electronic referral workflow to streamline communication and reduce delays. Methods: Guided by the Conceptual Framework of Complex Innovation Implementation, the project concentrated on system readiness, engaging stakeholders, and adapting to existing workflows. A HIPAA-compliant email account was established for referral intake by UC to ensure timely processing. A project manager tracked patient ID, referral date, follow-up time, and method over 15 weeks. Data was securely stored in an encrypted database for 154 patients and four staff members. Results: As a result, 100% of patients received follow-up within 72 hours, with an average response time of two hours. Despite 87% of referrals remaining non-electronic, the intervention ensured consistent follow-up. Conclusion: Electronic email improved efficiency and met CMS benchmarks, but interoperability with referring facilities hindered full adoption. Nursing implications include better care coordination, reduced administrative burdens, and improved patient outcomes. The adoption of electronic workflows serves to enhance efficiency and provide patient-centered care. Future efforts should focus on integrating systems to improve workflow and patient outcomes.
