Name of the Procedure:

Interprofessional Telephone/Internet/Electronic Health Record Assessment and Management Service by a Consultative Physician

Summary

This procedure involves a consultation provided by a specialist physician using telephone, internet, or electronic health records (EHR) to assess and manage a patient's condition. A verbal and written report is then sent to the patient's primary care physician or other qualified healthcare professional to guide further treatment.

Purpose

To provide expert consultation when in-person visits are not possible or necessary. This helps improve patient care by offering specialist input on complex cases.

Indications

• Complex medical conditions requiring specialist input.
• Patients needing follow-up assessments that don't necessitate an in-office visit.

• Coordination of care for patients with multiple healthcare providers.

  Preparation

• Patients should ensure that their primary care physician or other qualified healthcare professional has all pertinent medical records available for review.
• No specific preparation is required unless specified by the healthcare provider.

Procedure Description

1. Initial consultation request sent by the primary healthcare provider with relevant patient data.
2. Specialist reviews the patient’s electronic health records (EHR) and any submitted diagnostic tests or notes.
3. A consultation session may be held via telephone or internet-based platform.
4. The specialist assesses the patient's condition and provides recommendations.
5. Verbal and written reports are sent back to the primary healthcare provider.

Duration

Typically, the consultation and assessment can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, but it may vary depending on the complexity of the case.

Setting

This procedure is performed remotely via telephone, internet, or EHR system.

Personnel

• Consultative Physician (Specialist)
• Primary Treating/Requesting Physician or other qualified healthcare professionals

Risks and Complications

• Miscommunication or incomplete information transfer could lead to suboptimal recommendations.
• Technical issues may cause delays or require rescheduling.

Benefits

• Expert advice without the need for patient travel, reducing inconvenience and exposure to health risks.
• Rapid access to specialist input, possibly leading to quicker diagnosis and treatment.

Recovery

• No physical recovery is needed.
• Follow-up actions and recommendations will be provided based on the consultative advice.

Alternatives

• In-person consultation with a specialist.
• Referrals to other in-person assessments or diagnostic tests.
• Pros: Direct examination and testing; Cons: Increased travel and time investment.

Patient Experience

• Patients might not directly interact with the specialist but will benefit from their expertise.
• Enhanced care coordination between multiple healthcare providers.
• Assurance from specialist input may alleviate concerns about the condition and treatment plans.