Patient information entered into a reminder system with a target due date for the next mammogram (RAD)
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Patient Information Entered into a Reminder System for Next Mammogram
Common Names: Mammogram Reminder System Entry
Technical Terms: Radiological Appointment System Integration (RAD)
Summary
This procedure involves inputting a patient's information into a reminder system to ensure they are notified when their next mammogram is due. It's a simple administrative process that helps keep track of upcoming appointments and ensures timely preventive care.
Purpose
Medical Condition: Breast cancer screening and prevention.
Goals/Outcomes: To ensure that patients receive timely mammograms as part of routine breast cancer screening, thereby improving early detection and treatment outcomes.
Indications
Symptoms/Conditions: This procedure is appropriate for women of age groups recommended for regular mammography screenings, typically starting at age 40-50, as well as those with a family history or other risk factors for breast cancer.
Patient Criteria: Patients due for their next mammogram within the targeted timeframe, generally annually or biennially based on guidelines.
Preparation
No special preparation is required from the patient for this procedure. It is an administrative task and does not involve any pre-procedure tests or adjustments.
Procedure Description
- Gather Patient Information: Relevant details like name, date of birth, contact information, and medical history are collected.
- Enter Information: Data is input into the reminder system software.
- Set Target Date: The next mammogram due date is determined based on the patient's last mammogram date and standard screening intervals.
- Configuration: Reminder settings are configured to ensure the patient receives notifications (via email, text message, phone call) when their mammogram is due.
- Confirmation: Details are confirmed and saved in the system.
Tools Used: Computer with specialized reminder system software.
Anesthesia/Sedation: Not applicable.
Duration
The entire process typically takes about 10-15 minutes.
Setting
This procedure is usually performed in a medical office, outpatient clinic, or radiology department.
Personnel
Generally handled by administrative staff such as medical receptionists or medical assistants. No specialized medical personnel are required for this procedure.
Risks and Complications
There are no direct medical risks associated with this procedure. Possible administrative complications could include incorrect data entry leading to missed reminders, but these are mitigated by double-checking information.
Benefits
The primary benefit is ensuring patients receive timely mammograms, leading to early detection and increased chances of successful treatment of breast cancer. Benefits are realized as patients are consistently prompted to adhere to recommended screening schedules.
Recovery
Not applicable as this is an administrative procedure. No recovery period is required for the patient.
Alternatives
Other Options: Manual reminders through appointment cards, telephone calls, or personal calendar entries. Pros and Cons: Manual reminders might be less reliable or consistent. Automated systems provide timely, consistent notifications with less human error.
Patient Experience
Patients might not experience the procedure directly but will benefit from timely reminders for their mammogram appointments, reducing the likelihood of missing important screenings. Comfort and convenience are inherently enhanced through systematic reminders.