Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

[Guest guest]

Thanks . Great suggestionmichele To: " " < > Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 9:45 AM

Subject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

Michele,We send the reports along with the visit note that recommends the patient see the specialist with the referral (HMO patients) or fax them as the note is signed off. We are proactive on this, rather than reactive. Cuts down the fax requests, for certain. You could also do it at the end of each day for the patients that da you have referred, but our system makes it easy to fax stuff as the note is signed off, so that is our procedure. Send them whatever you have that you think would be pertinent. There are always a few that call asking for other things, which we usually don't have (such as actual x-ray films), but by being proactive, the stress of getting it to the specialist in a timely manner is also taken away.

Pratt

Hello Everyone, I am a solo solo FM doc and feeling over-whelmed by fax requests from specialists for information prior to a consultation (last note, labs, radiology reports etc). I print from my EHR to updox and then fax. Each request only takes a few minutes but those minutes are adding up! I make a point of giving my patients a copy of their test results at their next appointment. If results are normal, however, I just give them the results over the phone. So, they may not have a copy of everything by the time the see a particular specialist. The EHR I use has a patient portal where patients can access lab results (but only those done by Quest). Patients cannot access radiology reports through

the

portal. I absolutely want the specialists to have all the information they need. Just wondering how others handle these requests. Looking for a time saving solution.

Many thanksmicheleGlen Mills, PA

[Guest guest]

Michele,We send the reports along with the visit note that recommends the patient see the specialist with the referral (HMO patients) or fax them as the note is signed off.  We are proactive on this, rather than reactive.  Cuts down the fax requests, for certain.  You could also do it at the end of each day for the patients that da you have referred, but our system makes it easy to fax stuff as the note is signed off, so that is our procedure.  Send them whatever you have that you think would be pertinent.  There are always a few that call asking for other things, which we usually don't have (such as actual x-ray films), but by being proactive, the stress of getting it to the specialist in a timely manner is also taken away.

Pratt

 

Hello Everyone,  I am a solo solo FM doc and feeling over-whelmed by fax requests from specialists for information prior to a consultation (last note, labs, radiology reports etc).  I print from my EHR to updox and then fax.  Each request only takes a few minutes but those minutes are adding up!  I make a point of giving my patients a copy of their test results at their next appointment.  If results are normal, however, I just give them the results over the phone.  So, they may not have a copy of everything by the time the see a particular specialist.  The EHR I use has a patient portal where patients can access lab results (but only those done by Quest).  Patients cannot access radiology reports through the

portal.  I absolutely want the specialists to have all the information they need.  Just wondering how others handle these requests.  Looking for a time saving solution.

 Many thanksmicheleGlen Mills, PA

 

 

[Guest guest]

MicheleNot quite understanding your work flow - can you explain a little more?If you are using updox, it is just a few more clicks to save to chart AND send to patient at the same time OR post to portal for patient You can certainly send radiology reports through updox.If you are having to import them or sign them off it should be just as easy to do the work of sending to the patient at that time. Much faster than calling them up I can swear to that!Agree with sending labs xrays or what they need at the time the referral to specialist is sent.also easily done through my EHR. There's got be a way! LynnTo: From: mrlphl@...Date: Thu, 29 Mar 2012 06:34:39 -0700Subject: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

Hello Everyone, I am a solo solo FM doc and feeling over-whelmed by fax requests from specialists for information prior to a consultation (last note, labs, radiology reports etc). I print from my EHR to updox and then fax. Each request only takes a few minutes but those minutes are adding up! I make a point of giving my patients a copy of their test results at their next appointment. If results are normal, however, I just give them the results over the phone. So, they may not have a copy of everything by the time the see a particular specialist. The EHR I use has a patient portal where patients can access lab results (but only those done by Quest). Patients cannot access radiology reports through the

portal. I absolutely want the specialists to have all the information they need. Just wondering how others handle these requests. Looking for a time saving solution. Many thanksmicheleGlen Mills, PA

[Guest guest]

Hi Lynn, Thanks for your response. I haven't been using the post to portal option with updox though I now see that I really should. I am using Office Ally for my EHR. Updox does not directly connect to OA. When a radiology report comes into updox, I save to a "patient data" folder on my computer. Then, I need to upload from that folder into the EHR. Quest lab results go both directly into EHR and to updox. If I am understanding correctly, I can use the patient portal aspect of updox to allow patients to retrieve their results from

there???? ThanksMichele To: practiceimprovement1 Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 9:52 AM Subject: RE: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

MicheleNot quite understanding your work flow - can you explain a little more?If you are using updox, it is just a few more clicks to save to chart AND send to patient at the same time OR post to portal for patient You can certainly send radiology reports through updox.If you are having to import them or sign them off it should be just as easy to do the work of sending to the patient at that time. Much faster than calling them up I can swear to that!Agree with sending labs xrays or what they need at the time the referral to specialist is sent.also easily done through my EHR. There's got be a way! LynnTo: From:

mrlphl@...Date: Thu, 29 Mar 2012 06:34:39 -0700Subject: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

Hello Everyone, I am a solo solo FM doc and feeling over-whelmed by fax requests from specialists for information prior to a consultation (last note, labs, radiology reports etc). I print from my EHR to updox and then fax. Each request only takes a few minutes but those minutes are adding up! I make a point of giving my patients a copy of their test results at their next appointment. If results are normal, however, I just give them the results over the phone. So, they may not have a copy of everything by the time the see a particular specialist. The EHR I use has a patient portal where patients can access lab results (but only those done by Quest). Patients cannot access radiology reports

through the

portal. I absolutely want the specialists to have all the information they need. Just wondering how others handle these requests. Looking for a time saving solution. Many thanksmicheleGlen Mills, PA

[Guest guest]

agree with others The work of doing up a consult is much work to provide  info that is thorough and coherent so you and the  patient get  what you needIt is based in understanding your work flow and in grasping how your specilaists offices work

 Because we have no common record in this country,and you do have to get a note to  a consultant  pre-visit,

the best thing you can  do as  Ho says is know your work flow At visits,  or when you get labs,  get them into the chart. THEN have a template that autopopulates-- a template for the consult note that will already have labs and meds etc in there PMH etc

then you should only have to free text type into it what you want  the person seen  for

of course all does not always go that smoothly We often have to grab info   from any sourcesAnd any specialists   mess up on  getting faxes-- some fax machines are copy machines and a fax will come in and shoot right into the middle of a  copying job never to be seen again(I have seen this)

Many docs  want their own forms done  so that is a conversation to explain to them that you cannot do that that you can send a thorough  report but not  do  what their format t as is it not feasible using your ehrworking  out relationships with specialists takes time

 There is a mystery town here   from where no one can fax me-- they send paper ,nor can I fax --so I  email the neprhologists  we have worked this out, I  mail others, and/ or hand or email the note to patietns and say take it with you

I say to patietns  to  expect that my note is in front of them  before you start the visit etc 

Working out your processes takes an investment of time You may find there are some offices you cannot owrk withCalling  practice managers NOT  docs NOT receptionists is how you can work out  many bugsbecasue labs are not imported for most of us there is alot of work to do, HENCE these things happen at visit or the visit i s upcoded for time

Be wellJean

 

MicheleNot quite understanding your work flow - can you explain a little more?If you are using updox, it is just a few more clicks to save to chart AND send to patient at the same time OR post to portal for patient

You can certainly send radiology reports through updox.If you are having to import them or sign them off it should be just as easy to do the work of sending to the patient at that time. Much faster than calling them up I can swear to that!

Agree with sending labs xrays or what they need at the time the referral to specialist is sent.also easily done through my EHR.  There's got be a way!  LynnTo:

From: mrlphl@...Date: Thu, 29 Mar 2012 06:34:39 -0700Subject: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

Hello Everyone,  I am a solo solo FM doc and feeling over-whelmed by fax requests from specialists for information prior to a consultation (last note, labs, radiology reports etc).  I print from my EHR to updox and then fax.  Each request only takes a few minutes but those minutes are adding up!  I make a point of giving my patients a copy of their test results at their next appointment.  If results are normal, however, I just give them the results over the phone.  So, they may not have a copy of everything by the time the see a particular specialist.  The EHR I use has a patient portal where patients can access lab results (but only those done by Quest).  Patients cannot access radiology reports through the

portal.  I absolutely want the specialists to have all the information they need.  Just wondering how others handle these requests.  Looking for a time saving solution.

 Many thanksmicheleGlen Mills, PA

 

 

--      MD          ph    fax

[Guest guest]

,One tip for Updox- they have a setting that provides auto upload from a particular folder you set. Would save you the step of having to upload from your patient folder manually. I use mine to autoupload my manual scans.And yes, re: Updox patient portal. When you send a lab report to the portal, the patient is notified and can log in to view with your notation. You can also send them a secure email with attachment enclosing the lab or a regular email attachment- all from Updox. I do my best to give my patients all the referral documentation- it happens less often now but in the past, I would send notes and diagnostics to the specialist and they still would

not have it in front of them. I loved the look on the face of an endocrinologist when I attended my own daughter's consult appointment with him- he did not have what was faxed previously and would have wasted both our time- but my daughter pulled out her reports and gave him everything he needed.I also give patients whom I've just given a serious diagnosis, a folder or binder that I've started for them. I encourage them to use it to collect ALL their diagnostic studies, specialist notes, notes and references from their own research to share their questions with providers ... etc. They take this to all their appointments. It might have their formulary in it if their prescription plan is problematic. Carla Gibson To: " " < > Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 8:02 AM Subject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

Hi Lynn, Thanks for your response. I haven't been using the post to portal option with updox though I now see that I really should. I am using Office Ally for my EHR. Updox does not directly connect to OA. When a radiology report comes into updox, I save to a "patient data" folder on my computer. Then, I need to upload from that folder into the EHR. Quest lab results go both directly into EHR and to updox. If I am understanding correctly, I can use the patient portal aspect of updox to allow patients to retrieve their results from

there???? ThanksMichele To: practiceimprovement1 Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 9:52 AM Subject: RE: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

MicheleNot quite understanding your work flow - can you explain a little more?If you are using updox, it is just a few more clicks to save to chart AND send to patient at the same time OR post to portal for patient You can certainly send radiology reports through updox.If you are having to import them or sign them off it should be just as easy to do the work of sending to the patient at that time. Much faster than calling them up I can swear to that!Agree with sending labs xrays or what they need at the time the referral to specialist is sent.also easily done through my EHR. There's got be a way! LynnTo: From:

mrlphl@...Date: Thu, 29 Mar 2012 06:34:39 -0700Subject: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

Hello Everyone, I am a solo solo FM doc and feeling over-whelmed by fax requests from specialists for information prior to a consultation (last note, labs, radiology reports etc). I print from my EHR to updox and then fax. Each request only takes a few minutes but those minutes are adding up! I make a point of giving my patients a copy of their test results at their next appointment. If results are normal, however, I just give them the results over the phone. So, they may not have a copy of everything by the time the see a particular specialist. The EHR I use has a patient portal where patients can access lab results (but only those done by Quest). Patients cannot access radiology reports

through the

portal. I absolutely want the specialists to have all the information they need. Just wondering how others handle these requests. Looking for a time saving solution. Many thanksmicheleGlen Mills, PA

[Guest guest]

Carla & Lynn,I never did get Updox to use with AC.  Seems like both times I decided to, they were in the midst of some transition.  But now with patient portal, etc.  sounds like it would be worth a try again.

Do you guys recommend it?Sharon

Sharon McCoy MDRenaissance Family Medicine10 McClintock Court; Irvine, CA  92617PH: (949)387-5504   Fax: (949)281-2197  Toll free phone/fax:  www.SharonMD.com

 

,One tip for Updox- they have a setting that provides auto upload from a particular folder you set. Would save you the step of having to upload from your patient folder manually. I use mine to autoupload my manual scans.

And yes, re: Updox patient portal. When you send a lab report to the portal, the  patient is notified and can log in to view with your notation. You can also send them a secure email with attachment enclosing the lab or a regular email attachment- all from Updox.

I do my best to give my patients all the referral documentation- it happens less often now but in the past, I would send notes and diagnostics to the specialist and they still would

not have it in front of them. I loved the look on the face of an endocrinologist when I attended my own daughter's consult appointment with him- he did not have what was faxed previously and would have wasted both our time- but my daughter pulled out her reports and gave him everything he needed.

I also give patients whom I've just given a serious diagnosis, a folder or binder that I've started for them. I encourage them to use it to collect ALL their diagnostic studies, specialist notes, notes and references from their own research to share their questions with providers ... etc. They take this to all their appointments. It might have their formulary in it if their prescription plan is problematic. 

Carla Gibson

To: " " < >

Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 8:02 AM Subject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

Hi Lynn, Thanks for your response. I haven't been using the post to portal option with updox though I now see that I really should.  I am using Office Ally for my EHR.  Updox does not directly connect to OA.  When a radiology report comes into updox, I save to a " patient data " folder on my computer.  Then, I need to upload from that folder into the EHR.  Quest lab results go both directly into EHR and to updox. 

 If I am understanding correctly, I can use the patient portal aspect of updox to allow patients to retrieve their results from

there???? ThanksMichele

To: practiceimprovement1 Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 9:52 AM

Subject: RE: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

MicheleNot quite understanding your work flow - can you explain a little more?If you are using updox, it is just a few more clicks to save to chart AND send to patient at the same time OR post to portal for patient

You can certainly send radiology reports through updox.If you are having to import them or sign them off it should be just as easy to do the work of sending to the patient at that time. Much faster than calling them up I can swear to that!

Agree with sending labs xrays or what they need at the time the referral to specialist is sent.also easily done through my EHR.  There's got be a way!  Lynn

To: From:

mrlphl@...Date: Thu, 29 Mar 2012 06:34:39 -0700Subject: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

Hello Everyone,  I am a solo solo FM doc and feeling over-whelmed by fax requests from specialists for information prior to a consultation (last note, labs, radiology reports etc).  I print from my EHR to updox and then fax.  Each request only takes a few minutes but those minutes are adding up!  I make a point of giving my patients a copy of their test results at their next appointment.  If results are normal, however, I just give them the results over the phone.  So, they may not have a copy of everything by the time the see a particular specialist.  The EHR I use has a patient portal where patients can access lab results (but only those done by Quest).  Patients cannot access radiology reports

through the

portal.  I absolutely want the specialists to have all the information they need.  Just wondering how others handle these requests.  Looking for a time saving solution.

 Many thanksmicheleGlen Mills, PA

 

 

[Guest guest]

I do NOT recommend it!!! Not patient friendly and eats messages like crazy. In addition it does not date individual respones which makes it difficult to go back and identify the date sent etc.DannielleTo: Sent: Thu, March 29, 2012 9:49:16 AMSubject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

Carla & Lynn,I never did get Updox to use with AC. Seems like both times I decided to, they were in the midst of some transition. But now with patient portal, etc. sounds like it would be worth a try again.

Do you guys recommend it?Sharon

Sharon McCoy MDRenaissance Family Medicine10 McClintock Court; Irvine, CA 92617PH: (949)387-5504 Fax: (949)281-2197 Toll free phone/fax: www.SharonMD.com

,One tip for Updox- they have a setting that provides auto upload from a particular folder you set. Would save you the step of having to upload from your patient folder manually. I use mine to autoupload my manual scans.

And yes, re: Updox patient portal. When you send a lab report to the portal, the patient is notified and can log in to view with your notation. You can also send them a secure email with attachment enclosing the lab or a regular email attachment- all from Updox.

I do my best to give my patients all the referral documentation- it happens less often now but in the past, I would send notes and diagnostics to the specialist and they still would

not have it in front of them. I loved the look on the face of an endocrinologist when I attended my own daughter's consult appointment with him- he did not have what was faxed previously and would have wasted both our time- but my daughter pulled out her reports and gave him everything he needed.

I also give patients whom I've just given a serious diagnosis, a folder or binder that I've started for them. I encourage them to use it to collect ALL their diagnostic studies, specialist notes, notes and references from their own research to share their questions with providers ... etc. They take this to all their appointments. It might have their formulary in it if their prescription plan is problematic.

Carla Gibson

To: " " < >

Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 8:02 AM Subject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

Hi Lynn, Thanks for your response. I haven't been using the post to portal option with updox though I now see that I really should. I am using Office Ally for my EHR. Updox does not directly connect to OA. When a radiology report comes into updox, I save to a "patient data" folder on my computer. Then, I need to upload from that folder into the EHR. Quest lab results go both directly into EHR and to updox.

If I am understanding correctly, I can use the patient portal aspect of updox to allow patients to retrieve their results from

there???? ThanksMichele

To: practiceimprovement1 Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 9:52 AM

Subject: RE: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

MicheleNot quite understanding your work flow - can you explain a little more?If you are using updox, it is just a few more clicks to save to chart AND send to patient at the same time OR post to portal for patient

You can certainly send radiology reports through updox.If you are having to import them or sign them off it should be just as easy to do the work of sending to the patient at that time. Much faster than calling them up I can swear to that!

Agree with sending labs xrays or what they need at the time the referral to specialist is sent.also easily done through my EHR. There's got be a way! Lynn

To: From:

mrlphl@...Date: Thu, 29 Mar 2012 06:34:39 -0700Subject: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

Hello Everyone, I am a solo solo FM doc and feeling over-whelmed by fax requests from specialists for information prior to a consultation (last note, labs, radiology reports etc). I print from my EHR to updox and then fax. Each request only takes a few minutes but those minutes are adding up! I make a point of giving my patients a copy of their test results at their next appointment. If results are normal, however, I just give them the results over the phone. So, they may not have a copy of everything by the time the see a particular specialist. The EHR I use has a patient portal where patients can access lab results (but only those done by Quest). Patients cannot access radiology reports

through the

portal. I absolutely want the specialists to have all the information they need. Just wondering how others handle these requests. Looking for a time saving solution.

Many thanksmicheleGlen Mills, PA

[Guest guest]

I have used Updox since 11/11. When I get around to emptying my faxes I am looking to switch to ringcentral efax. Although I like the support and friendly people at Updox, I find it slow and buggy [disclaimer, it could be me and my system].

There a whole lot of clicking buttons to download, upload, transfer to pt file. Maybe it's just the nature of this kind of software. I am just looking for less steps, more efficiency in dealing with digital " paper " .

good luck!Anne Walch

 

Carla & Lynn,I never did get Updox to use with AC.  Seems like both times I decided to, they were in the midst of some transition.  But now with patient portal, etc.  sounds like it would be worth a try again.

Do you guys recommend it?Sharon

Sharon McCoy MDRenaissance Family Medicine10 McClintock Court; Irvine, CA  92617PH: (949)387-5504   Fax: (949)281-2197  Toll free phone/fax: 

www.SharonMD.com

 

,One tip for Updox- they have a setting that provides auto upload from a particular folder you set. Would save you the step of having to upload from your patient folder manually. I use mine to autoupload my manual scans.

And yes, re: Updox patient portal. When you send a lab report to the portal, the  patient is notified and can log in to view with your notation. You can also send them a secure email with attachment enclosing the lab or a regular email attachment- all from Updox.

I do my best to give my patients all the referral documentation- it happens less often now but in the past, I would send notes and diagnostics to the specialist and they still would

not have it in front of them. I loved the look on the face of an endocrinologist when I attended my own daughter's consult appointment with him- he did not have what was faxed previously and would have wasted both our time- but my daughter pulled out her reports and gave him everything he needed.

I also give patients whom I've just given a serious diagnosis, a folder or binder that I've started for them. I encourage them to use it to collect ALL their diagnostic studies, specialist notes, notes and references from their own research to share their questions with providers ... etc. They take this to all their appointments. It might have their formulary in it if their prescription plan is problematic. 

Carla Gibson

To: " " < >

Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 8:02 AM Subject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

Hi Lynn, Thanks for your response. I haven't been using the post to portal option with updox though I now see that I really should.  I am using Office Ally for my EHR.  Updox does not directly connect to OA.  When a radiology report comes into updox, I save to a " patient data " folder on my computer.  Then, I need to upload from that folder into the EHR.  Quest lab results go both directly into EHR and to updox. 

 If I am understanding correctly, I can use the patient portal aspect of updox to allow patients to retrieve their results from

there???? ThanksMichele

To: practiceimprovement1 Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 9:52 AM

Subject: RE: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

MicheleNot quite understanding your work flow - can you explain a little more?If you are using updox, it is just a few more clicks to save to chart AND send to patient at the same time OR post to portal for patient

You can certainly send radiology reports through updox.If you are having to import them or sign them off it should be just as easy to do the work of sending to the patient at that time. Much faster than calling them up I can swear to that!

Agree with sending labs xrays or what they need at the time the referral to specialist is sent.also easily done through my EHR.  There's got be a way!  Lynn

To: From:

mrlphl@...Date: Thu, 29 Mar 2012 06:34:39 -0700Subject: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

Hello Everyone,  I am a solo solo FM doc and feeling over-whelmed by fax requests from specialists for information prior to a consultation (last note, labs, radiology reports etc).  I print from my EHR to updox and then fax.  Each request only takes a few minutes but those minutes are adding up!  I make a point of giving my patients a copy of their test results at their next appointment.  If results are normal, however, I just give them the results over the phone.  So, they may not have a copy of everything by the time the see a particular specialist.  The EHR I use has a patient portal where patients can access lab results (but only those done by Quest).  Patients cannot access radiology reports

through the

portal.  I absolutely want the specialists to have all the information they need.  Just wondering how others handle these requests.  Looking for a time saving solution.

 Many thanksmicheleGlen Mills, PA

 

 

-- Anne Walch, MHS, PA-CHealing Path Integrative Medicinewww.hpimed.com

[Guest guest]

Yeah I am  very pleased with ring central I had had some other software and  trialed a bunch of stuffI think they offer more services than I even make use of and very affordable good luck!

 

I have used Updox since 11/11. When I get around to emptying my faxes I am looking to switch to ringcentral efax. Although I like the support and friendly people at Updox, I find it slow and buggy [disclaimer, it could be me and my system].

There a whole lot of clicking buttons to download, upload, transfer to pt file. Maybe it's just the nature of this kind of software. I am just looking for less steps, more efficiency in dealing with digital " paper " .

good luck!Anne Walch

 

Carla & Lynn,I never did get Updox to use with AC.  Seems like both times I decided to, they were in the midst of some transition.  But now with patient portal, etc.  sounds like it would be worth a try again.

Do you guys recommend it?Sharon

Sharon McCoy MDRenaissance Family Medicine10 McClintock Court; Irvine, CA  92617PH: (949)387-5504   Fax: (949)281-2197  Toll free phone/fax: 

www.SharonMD.com

 

,One tip for Updox- they have a setting that provides auto upload from a particular folder you set. Would save you the step of having to upload from your patient folder manually. I use mine to autoupload my manual scans.

And yes, re: Updox patient portal. When you send a lab report to the portal, the  patient is notified and can log in to view with your notation. You can also send them a secure email with attachment enclosing the lab or a regular email attachment- all from Updox.

I do my best to give my patients all the referral documentation- it happens less often now but in the past, I would send notes and diagnostics to the specialist and they still would

not have it in front of them. I loved the look on the face of an endocrinologist when I attended my own daughter's consult appointment with him- he did not have what was faxed previously and would have wasted both our time- but my daughter pulled out her reports and gave him everything he needed.

I also give patients whom I've just given a serious diagnosis, a folder or binder that I've started for them. I encourage them to use it to collect ALL their diagnostic studies, specialist notes, notes and references from their own research to share their questions with providers ... etc. They take this to all their appointments. It might have their formulary in it if their prescription plan is problematic. 

Carla Gibson

To: " " < >

Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 8:02 AM Subject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

Hi Lynn, Thanks for your response. I haven't been using the post to portal option with updox though I now see that I really should.  I am using Office Ally for my EHR.  Updox does not directly connect to OA.  When a radiology report comes into updox, I save to a " patient data " folder on my computer.  Then, I need to upload from that folder into the EHR.  Quest lab results go both directly into EHR and to updox. 

 If I am understanding correctly, I can use the patient portal aspect of updox to allow patients to retrieve their results from

there???? ThanksMichele

To: practiceimprovement1 Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 9:52 AM

Subject: RE: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

MicheleNot quite understanding your work flow - can you explain a little more?If you are using updox, it is just a few more clicks to save to chart AND send to patient at the same time OR post to portal for patient

You can certainly send radiology reports through updox.If you are having to import them or sign them off it should be just as easy to do the work of sending to the patient at that time. Much faster than calling them up I can swear to that!

Agree with sending labs xrays or what they need at the time the referral to specialist is sent.also easily done through my EHR.  There's got be a way!  Lynn

To: From:

mrlphl@...Date: Thu, 29 Mar 2012 06:34:39 -0700Subject: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

Hello Everyone,  I am a solo solo FM doc and feeling over-whelmed by fax requests from specialists for information prior to a consultation (last note, labs, radiology reports etc).  I print from my EHR to updox and then fax.  Each request only takes a few minutes but those minutes are adding up!  I make a point of giving my patients a copy of their test results at their next appointment.  If results are normal, however, I just give them the results over the phone.  So, they may not have a copy of everything by the time the see a particular specialist.  The EHR I use has a patient portal where patients can access lab results (but only those done by Quest).  Patients cannot access radiology reports

through the

portal.  I absolutely want the specialists to have all the information they need.  Just wondering how others handle these requests.  Looking for a time saving solution.

 Many thanksmicheleGlen Mills, PA

 

 

-- Anne Walch, MHS, PA-CHealing Path Integrative Medicinewww.hpimed.com

--      MD          ph    fax

[Guest guest]

Having been to IMP camp several times I still cannot wrap my head around the need for something like UpDox. My faxes come in to my Brother All in One and are forwarded to my computer. I sign and transfer to chart or to my nurse to "file" to chart. No additional costs. What might I be missing here? It's tough getting faxes to specialists. I fax the day I do the referral and still get calls that I never did and can end up faxing 4 times! Ditto for surgical clearance. For surgery I print the note, the labs and the EKg and hand them to the patient just to prevent cancellation of surgery because I supposedly never gave clearance. To: Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 3:49 PM Subject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

I do NOT recommend it!!! Not patient friendly and eats messages like crazy. In addition it does not date individual respones which makes it difficult to go back and identify the date sent etc.DannielleTo:

Sent: Thu, March 29, 2012 9:49:16 AMSubject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

Carla & Lynn,I never did get Updox to use with AC. Seems like both times I decided to, they were in the midst of some transition. But now with patient portal, etc. sounds like it would be worth a try again.

Do you guys recommend it?Sharon

Sharon McCoy MDRenaissance Family Medicine10 McClintock Court; Irvine, CA 92617PH: (949)387-5504 Fax: (949)281-2197 Toll free phone/fax: www.SharonMD.com

,One tip for Updox- they have a setting that provides auto upload from a particular folder you set. Would save you the step of having to upload from your patient folder manually. I use mine to autoupload my manual scans.

And yes, re: Updox patient portal. When you send a lab report to the portal, the patient is notified and can log in to view with your notation. You can also send them a secure email with attachment enclosing the lab or a regular email attachment- all from Updox.

I do my best to give my patients all the referral documentation- it happens less often now but in the past, I would send notes and diagnostics to the specialist and they still would

not have it in front of them. I loved the look on the face of an endocrinologist when I attended my own daughter's consult appointment with him- he did not have what was faxed previously and would have wasted both our time- but my daughter pulled out her reports and gave him everything he needed.

I also give patients whom I've just given a serious diagnosis, a folder or binder that I've started for them. I encourage them to use it to collect ALL their diagnostic studies, specialist notes, notes and references from their own research to share their questions with providers ... etc. They take this to all their appointments. It might have their formulary in it if their prescription plan is problematic.

Carla Gibson

To: " " < >

Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 8:02 AM Subject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

Hi Lynn, Thanks for your response. I haven't been using the post to portal option with updox though I now see that I really should. I am using Office Ally for my EHR. Updox does not directly connect to OA. When a radiology report comes into updox, I save to a "patient data" folder on my computer. Then, I need to upload from that folder into the EHR. Quest lab results go both directly into EHR and to updox.

If I am understanding correctly, I can use the patient portal aspect of updox to allow patients to retrieve their results from

there???? ThanksMichele

To: practiceimprovement1 Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 9:52 AM

Subject: RE: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

MicheleNot quite understanding your work flow - can you explain a little more?If you are using updox, it is just a few more clicks to save to chart AND send to patient at the same time OR post to portal for patient

You can certainly send radiology reports through updox.If you are having to import them or sign them off it should be just as easy to do the work of sending to the patient at that time. Much faster than calling them up I can swear to that!

Agree with sending labs xrays or what they need at the time the referral to specialist is sent.also easily done through my EHR. There's got be a way! Lynn

To: From:

mrlphl@...Date: Thu, 29 Mar 2012 06:34:39 -0700Subject: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

Hello Everyone, I am a solo solo FM doc and feeling over-whelmed by fax requests from specialists for information prior to a consultation (last note, labs, radiology reports etc). I print from my EHR to updox and then fax. Each request only takes a few minutes but those minutes are adding up! I make a point of giving my patients a copy of their test results at their next appointment. If results are normal, however, I just give them the results over the phone. So, they may not have a copy of everything by the time the see a particular specialist. The EHR I use has a patient portal where patients can access lab results (but only those done by Quest). Patients cannot access radiology reports

through the

portal. I absolutely want the specialists to have all the information they need. Just wondering how others handle these requests. Looking for a time saving solution.

Many thanksmicheleGlen Mills, PA

[Guest guest]

Myria, I think some people use Updox for HIPAA reasons and for having a secure pt portal, altho Seto gave me

some good tips for encrypting from my computer if I switch to ringcentral efax.I have my patients sign a consent to allow non-secure digital communication -- not one patient has asked for " secure " communication channels ( I think they detest username/passwords as much as we do -- they want simplicity and are willing to sacrifice some security).

How do you sign? You mean digitally?I believe UpDox and ringcentral efax allow for digital signatures.Anne Walch

 

Having been to IMP camp several times I still cannot wrap my head around the need for something like UpDox.  My faxes come in to my Brother All in One and are forwarded to my computer.  I sign and transfer to chart or to my nurse to " file " to chart.  No additional costs.  What might I be missing here?

 It's tough getting faxes to specialists.  I fax the day I do the referral and still get calls that I never did and can end up faxing 4 times!  Ditto for surgical clearance.  For surgery I print the note, the labs and the EKg and hand them to the patient just to prevent cancellation of surgery because I supposedly never gave clearance.

 

To:

Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 3:49 PM Subject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

I do NOT recommend it!!! Not patient friendly and eats messages like crazy. In addition it does not date individual respones which makes it difficult to go back and identify the date sent etc.

Dannielle

To:

Sent: Thu, March 29, 2012 9:49:16 AMSubject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

Carla & Lynn,I never did get Updox to use with AC.  Seems like both times I decided to, they were in the midst of some transition.  But now with patient portal, etc.  sounds like it would be worth a try again.

Do you guys recommend it?Sharon

Sharon McCoy MDRenaissance Family Medicine10 McClintock Court; Irvine, CA  92617PH: (949)387-5504   Fax: (949)281-2197  Toll free phone/fax: 

www.SharonMD.com

 

,One tip for Updox- they have a setting that provides auto upload from a particular folder you set. Would save you the step of having to upload from your patient folder manually. I use mine to autoupload my manual scans.

And yes, re: Updox patient portal. When you send a lab report to the portal, the  patient is notified and can log in to view with your notation. You can also send them a secure email with attachment enclosing the lab or a regular email attachment- all from Updox.

I do my best to give my patients all the referral documentation- it happens less often now but in the past, I would send notes and diagnostics to the specialist and they still would

not have it in front of them. I loved the look on the face of an endocrinologist when I attended my own daughter's consult appointment with him- he did not have what was faxed previously and would have wasted both our time- but my daughter pulled out her reports and gave him everything he needed.

I also give patients whom I've just given a serious diagnosis, a folder or binder that I've started for them. I encourage them to use it to collect ALL their diagnostic studies, specialist notes, notes and references from their own research to share their questions with providers ... etc. They take this to all their appointments. It might have their formulary in it if their prescription plan is problematic. 

Carla Gibson

To: " " < >

Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 8:02 AM Subject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

Hi Lynn, Thanks for your response. I haven't been using the post to portal option with updox though I now see that I really should.  I am using Office Ally for my EHR.  Updox does not directly connect to OA.  When a radiology report comes into updox, I save to a " patient data " folder on my computer.  Then, I need to upload from that folder into the EHR.  Quest lab results go both directly into EHR and to updox. 

 If I am understanding correctly, I can use the patient portal aspect of updox to allow patients to retrieve their results from

there???? ThanksMichele

To: practiceimprovement1 Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 9:52 AM

Subject: RE: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

MicheleNot quite understanding your work flow - can you explain a little more?If you are using updox, it is just a few more clicks to save to chart AND send to patient at the same time OR post to portal for patient

You can certainly send radiology reports through updox.If you are having to import them or sign them off it should be just as easy to do the work of sending to the patient at that time. Much faster than calling them up I can swear to that!

Agree with sending labs xrays or what they need at the time the referral to specialist is sent.also easily done through my EHR.  There's got be a way!  Lynn

To: From:

mrlphl@...Date: Thu, 29 Mar 2012 06:34:39 -0700Subject: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

Hello Everyone,  I am a solo solo FM doc and feeling over-whelmed by fax requests from specialists for information prior to a consultation (last note, labs, radiology reports etc).  I print from my EHR to updox and then fax.  Each request only takes a few minutes but those minutes are adding up!  I make a point of giving my patients a copy of their test results at their next appointment.  If results are normal, however, I just give them the results over the phone.  So, they may not have a copy of everything by the time the see a particular specialist.  The EHR I use has a patient portal where patients can access lab results (but only those done by Quest).  Patients cannot access radiology reports

through the

portal.  I absolutely want the specialists to have all the information they need.  Just wondering how others handle these requests.  Looking for a time saving solution.

 Many thanksmicheleGlen Mills, PA

 

 

-- Anne Walch, MHS, PA-CHealing Path Integrative Medicinewww.hpimed.com

[Guest guest]

You can add in the picture of a   signature on ring cnetral itis a stamp you create  Can create lots of stampsPeople who have paperport and Brothers may NOT need anythign elsefaxes are bizarre as myria says and I have found in those cases you either stop using those docs or call them up and ask for an email or another fax number My fax software tells me if soemthing went through  I often  find that when I say " I see it wen through at 11:21:17 on March 1 that is get s found But sometimes it does not and I donot understand this nor  has  anyone ever explained it to me I f this is someone you have  to work with it is time for a call to test it out or  find alternative # or eat it and mail.

 

Myria, I think some people use Updox for HIPAA reasons and for having a secure pt portal, altho Seto gave me

some good tips for encrypting from my computer if I switch to ringcentral efax.I have my patients sign a consent to allow non-secure digital communication -- not one patient has asked for " secure " communication channels ( I think they detest username/passwords as much as we do -- they want simplicity and are willing to sacrifice some security).

How do you sign? You mean digitally?I believe UpDox and ringcentral efax allow for digital signatures.Anne Walch

 

Having been to IMP camp several times I still cannot wrap my head around the need for something like UpDox.  My faxes come in to my Brother All in One and are forwarded to my computer.  I sign and transfer to chart or to my nurse to " file " to chart.  No additional costs.  What might I be missing here?

 It's tough getting faxes to specialists.  I fax the day I do the referral and still get calls that I never did and can end up faxing 4 times!  Ditto for surgical clearance.  For surgery I print the note, the labs and the EKg and hand them to the patient just to prevent cancellation of surgery because I supposedly never gave clearance.

 

To:

Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 3:49 PM Subject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

I do NOT recommend it!!! Not patient friendly and eats messages like crazy. In addition it does not date individual respones which makes it difficult to go back and identify the date sent etc.

Dannielle

To:

Sent: Thu, March 29, 2012 9:49:16 AMSubject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

Carla & Lynn,I never did get Updox to use with AC.  Seems like both times I decided to, they were in the midst of some transition.  But now with patient portal, etc.  sounds like it would be worth a try again.

Do you guys recommend it?Sharon

Sharon McCoy MDRenaissance Family Medicine10 McClintock Court; Irvine, CA  92617PH: (949)387-5504   Fax: (949)281-2197  Toll free phone/fax: 

www.SharonMD.com

 

,One tip for Updox- they have a setting that provides auto upload from a particular folder you set. Would save you the step of having to upload from your patient folder manually. I use mine to autoupload my manual scans.

And yes, re: Updox patient portal. When you send a lab report to the portal, the  patient is notified and can log in to view with your notation. You can also send them a secure email with attachment enclosing the lab or a regular email attachment- all from Updox.

I do my best to give my patients all the referral documentation- it happens less often now but in the past, I would send notes and diagnostics to the specialist and they still would

not have it in front of them. I loved the look on the face of an endocrinologist when I attended my own daughter's consult appointment with him- he did not have what was faxed previously and would have wasted both our time- but my daughter pulled out her reports and gave him everything he needed.

I also give patients whom I've just given a serious diagnosis, a folder or binder that I've started for them. I encourage them to use it to collect ALL their diagnostic studies, specialist notes, notes and references from their own research to share their questions with providers ... etc. They take this to all their appointments. It might have their formulary in it if their prescription plan is problematic. 

Carla Gibson

To: " " < >

Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 8:02 AM Subject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

Hi Lynn, Thanks for your response. I haven't been using the post to portal option with updox though I now see that I really should.  I am using Office Ally for my EHR.  Updox does not directly connect to OA.  When a radiology report comes into updox, I save to a " patient data " folder on my computer.  Then, I need to upload from that folder into the EHR.  Quest lab results go both directly into EHR and to updox. 

 If I am understanding correctly, I can use the patient portal aspect of updox to allow patients to retrieve their results from

there???? ThanksMichele

To: practiceimprovement1 Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 9:52 AM

Subject: RE: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

MicheleNot quite understanding your work flow - can you explain a little more?If you are using updox, it is just a few more clicks to save to chart AND send to patient at the same time OR post to portal for patient

You can certainly send radiology reports through updox.If you are having to import them or sign them off it should be just as easy to do the work of sending to the patient at that time. Much faster than calling them up I can swear to that!

Agree with sending labs xrays or what they need at the time the referral to specialist is sent.also easily done through my EHR.  There's got be a way!  Lynn

To: From:

mrlphl@...Date: Thu, 29 Mar 2012 06:34:39 -0700Subject: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

 

Hello Everyone,  I am a solo solo FM doc and feeling over-whelmed by fax requests from specialists for information prior to a consultation (last note, labs, radiology reports etc).  I print from my EHR to updox and then fax.  Each request only takes a few minutes but those minutes are adding up!  I make a point of giving my patients a copy of their test results at their next appointment.  If results are normal, however, I just give them the results over the phone.  So, they may not have a copy of everything by the time the see a particular specialist.  The EHR I use has a patient portal where patients can access lab results (but only those done by Quest).  Patients cannot access radiology reports

through the

portal.  I absolutely want the specialists to have all the information they need.  Just wondering how others handle these requests.  Looking for a time saving solution.

 Many thanksmicheleGlen Mills, PA

 

 

-- Anne Walch, MHS, PA-CHealing Path Integrative Medicinewww.hpimed.com

--      MD          ph    fax

[Guest guest]

the opposing viewpoint ( there always is one!)

I love it it saves me 1 -2.5 hours per day easily

not buggy and have not lost any messages. dont use it for incoming fax but I'm

about to get rid of my land line fax so - we will see.

I'd have to say I recommend it highly.

(no commercial bias)

Lynn

________________________________ & #13; & #10; & #62; To & #58;

& #64;yahoogroups.com & #13; & #10; & #62; From & #58;

dharwood100 & #64;sbcglobal.net & #13; & #10; & #62; Date & #58; Thu, 29 Mar 2012

12 & #58;49 & #58;08 -0700 & #13; & #10; & #62; Subject & #58; Re & #58;

& #91; & #93; how to handle volume of fax & #13; & #10; & #62;

requests from specialists & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62;

& #13; & #10; & #62; I do NOT recommend it & #33; & #33; & #33; Not patient friendly and

eats messages like & #13; & #10; & #62; crazy. In addition it does not date

individual respones which makes it & #13; & #10; & #62; difficult to go back and

identify the date sent etc. & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; Dannielle

& #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62;

________________________________ & #13; & #10; & #62; From & #58; Sharon McCoy

& #60;docsharon & #64;cox.net & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; To & #58;

& #64;yahoogroups.com & #13; & #10; & #62; Sent & #58; Thu, March

29, 2012 9 & #58;49 & #58;16 AM & #13; & #10; & #62; Subject & #58; Re & #58;

& #91; & #93; how to handle volume of fax & #13; & #10; & #62;

requests from specialists & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62;

& #13; & #10; & #62; Carla & #38; Lynn, & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; I never did

get Updox to use with AC. Seems like both times I decided & #13; & #10; & #62; to,

they were in the midst of some transition. But now with patient

& #13; & #10; & #62; portal, etc. sounds like it would be worth a try again.

& #13; & #10; & #62; Do you guys recommend it & #63; & #13; & #10; & #62; Sharon

& #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; Sharon McCoy MD & #13; & #10; & #62;

Renaissance Family Medicine & #13; & #10; & #62; 10 McClintock Court & #59; Irvine, CA

92617 & #13; & #10; & #62; PH & #58; & #40;949 & #41;387-5504 Fax & #58;

& #40;949 & #41;281-2197 Toll free phone/fax & #58; & #13; & #10; & #62;

www.SharonMD.com & #60;http & #58;//www.SharonMD.com & #62;

& #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; On Thu, Mar

29, 2012 at 8 & #58;38 AM, Carla Gibson & #13; & #10; & #62;

& #60;carlygold & #64;yahoo.com & #60;mailto & #58;carlygold & #64;yahoo.com & #62; & #62;

wrote & #58; & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; ,

& #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; One tip for Updox- they have a setting that

provides auto upload from a & #13; & #10; & #62; particular folder you set. Would

save you the step of having to upload & #13; & #10; & #62; from your patient folder

manually. I use mine to autoupload my manual & #13; & #10; & #62; scans.

& #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; And yes, re & #58; Updox patient portal. When you

send a lab report to the & #13; & #10; & #62; portal, the patient is notified and

can log in to view with your & #13; & #10; & #62; notation. You can also send them a

secure email with attachment & #13; & #10; & #62; enclosing the lab or a regular

email attachment- all from Updox. & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; I do my best

to give my patients all the referral documentation- it & #13; & #10; & #62; happens

less often now but in the past, I would send notes and & #13; & #10; & #62;

diagnostics to the specialist and they still would not have it in front

& #13; & #10; & #62; of them. I loved the look on the face of an endocrinologist when

I & #13; & #10; & #62; attended my own daughter & #39;s consult appointment with him-

he did not & #13; & #10; & #62; have what was faxed previously and would have wasted

both our time- but & #13; & #10; & #62; my daughter pulled out her reports and gave

him everything he needed. & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; I also give patients

whom I & #39;ve just given a serious diagnosis, a folder & #13; & #10; & #62; or

binder that I & #39;ve started for them. I encourage them to use it to

& #13; & #10; & #62; collect ALL their diagnostic studies, specialist notes, notes

and & #13; & #10; & #62; references from their own research to share their questions

with & #13; & #10; & #62; providers ... etc. They take this to all their

appointments. It might & #13; & #10; & #62; have their formulary in it if their

prescription plan is problematic. & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; Carla Gibson

& #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; ________________________________

& #13; & #10; & #62; From & #58; mrlphl

& #60;mrlphl & #64;yahoo.com & #60;mailto & #58;mrlphl & #64;yahoo.com & #62; & #62;

& #13; & #10; & #62; To & #58; & #13; & #10; & #62;

& #34; & #64;yahoogroups.com & #60;mailto & #58;Practiceimprovement\

1 & #64;yahoogroups.com & #62; & #34; & #13; & #10; & #62;

& #60; & #64;yahoogroups.com & #60;mailto & #58;Practiceimprovement\

1 & #64;yahoogroups.com & #62; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; Sent & #58; Thursday, March 29,

2012 8 & #58;02 AM & #13; & #10; & #62; Subject & #58; Re & #58;

& #91; & #93; how to handle volume of fax & #13; & #10; & #62;

requests from specialists & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; Hi

Lynn, & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; Thanks for your response. & #13; & #10; & #62;

& #13; & #10; & #62; I haven & #39;t been using the post to portal option with updox

though I now & #13; & #10; & #62; see that I really should. I am using Office Ally

for my EHR. Updox & #13; & #10; & #62; does not directly connect to OA. When a

radiology report comes into & #13; & #10; & #62; updox, I save to a & #34;patient

data & #34; folder on my computer. Then, I need & #13; & #10; & #62; to upload from

that folder into the EHR. Quest lab results go both & #13; & #10; & #62; directly

into EHR and to updox. & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; If I am understanding

correctly, I can use the patient portal aspect of & #13; & #10; & #62; updox to

allow patients to retrieve their results from there & #63; & #63; & #63; & #63;

& #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; Thanks & #13; & #10; & #62; Michele & #13; & #10; & #62;

& #13; & #10; & #62; From & #58; Lynn Ho

& #60;lynnhri & #64;hotmail.com & #60;mailto & #58;lynnhri & #64;hotmail.com & #62; & #62;

& #13; & #10; & #62; To & #58; & #13; & #10; & #62;

practiceimprovement1 & #64;yahoogroups.com & #60;mailto & #58;practiceimprovement1 & #64\

;yahoogroups.com & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; Sent & #58; Thursday, March 29, 2012

9 & #58;52 AM & #13; & #10; & #62; Subject & #58; RE & #58; & #91; & #93;

how to handle volume of fax & #13; & #10; & #62; requests from specialists

& #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; Michele & #13; & #10; & #62; Not

quite understanding your work flow - can you explain a little more & #63;

& #13; & #10; & #62; If you are using updox, it is just a few more clicks to save to

chart & #13; & #10; & #62; AND send to patient at the same time OR post to portal

for patient & #13; & #10; & #62; You can certainly send radiology reports through

updox. & #13; & #10; & #62; If you are having to import them or sign them off it

should be just as & #13; & #10; & #62; easy to do the work of sending to the patient

at that time. & #13; & #10; & #62; Much faster than calling them up I can swear to

that & #33; & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; Agree with sending labs xrays or what

they need at the time the & #13; & #10; & #62; referral to specialist is sent.

& #13; & #10; & #62; also easily done through my EHR. There & #39;s got be a way & #33;

& #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; Lynn & #13; & #10; & #62; To & #58; & #13; & #10; & #62;

& #64;yahoogroups.com & #60;mailto & #58; & #64\

;yahoogroups.com & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; From & #58;

mrlphl & #64;yahoo.com & #60;mailto & #58;mrlphl & #64;yahoo.com & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62;

Date & #58; Thu, 29 Mar 2012 06 & #58;34 & #58;39 -0700 & #13; & #10; & #62; Subject & #58;

& #91; & #93; how to handle volume of fax requests

& #13; & #10; & #62; from specialists & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62;

& #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; Hello Everyone, & #13; & #10; & #62;

& #13; & #10; & #62; I am a solo solo FM doc and feeling over-whelmed by fax

requests from & #13; & #10; & #62; specialists for information prior to a

consultation & #40;last note, labs, & #13; & #10; & #62; radiology reports etc & #41;.

I print from my EHR to updox and then fax. & #13; & #10; & #62; Each request only

takes a few minutes but those minutes are adding up & #33; & #13; & #10; & #62; I

make a point of giving my patients a copy of their test results at

& #13; & #10; & #62; their next appointment. If results are normal, however, I just

give & #13; & #10; & #62; them the results over the phone. So, they may not have a

copy of & #13; & #10; & #62; everything by the time the see a particular specialist.

The EHR I use & #13; & #10; & #62; has a patient portal where patients can access

lab results & #40;but only & #13; & #10; & #62; those done by Quest & #41;. Patients

cannot access radiology reports through & #13; & #10; & #62; the portal.

& #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; I absolutely want the specialists to have all

the information they & #13; & #10; & #62; need. Just wondering how others handle

these requests. Looking for a & #13; & #10; & #62; time saving solution.

& #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; Many thanks & #13; & #10; & #62; michele

& #13; & #10; & #62; Glen Mills, PA & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62;

& #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62;

& #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10; & #62;

& #13; & #10; & #62; & #13; & #10;

[Guest guest]

Sharon,I had the same experience- such high hopes several years ago but then their transitions knocked everything down. I tried it again about 8-9 months ago, maybe longer.. and I love it. I've used paperport which I also loved, also used OneBox and now have MetroFax for faxes and now have Phone.com- but Updox is more than just for faxes and it does more than paperport. In one fell swoop you can fax a report out, import it to the chart with a note in the edit section and email it to the patient using non-secure or secure setup- plus upload it to their portal. I will be using the portal to provide patients with access to their specialty consults, diagnostics and our emails- perhaps even their visit notes. And, of course, you can do document mark up. Its easy to find

documents you faxed out last week to refax again if needed for some reason and its easy to retrieve documents out of the trash. I've not yet had a lost document and it has not been buggy for me. I still use paperport for some things but had to go to a newer version with windows 7- and the new paperport is not comparable to the old paperport- it is slower, and for some reason it leaves a shadow on my documents when printed.. and it just isn't much fun to use anymore. Most reviewers on Amazon hate the new versions. I find UpDox fun.I currently print my faxes to Updox- would consider using it to receive or automatically sending them all there, but I like using it more for reports and documents that need to be uploaded rather than for refill fax requests and such.

Carla To: Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 10:49 AM Subject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

Carla & Lynn,I never did get Updox to use with AC. Seems like both times I decided to, they were in the midst of some transition. But now with patient portal, etc. sounds like it would be worth a try again.

Do you guys recommend it?Sharon

Sharon McCoy MDRenaissance Family Medicine10 McClintock Court; Irvine, CA 92617PH: (949)387-5504 Fax: (949)281-2197 Toll free phone/fax: www.SharonMD.com

,One tip for Updox- they have a setting that provides auto upload from a particular folder you set. Would save you the step of having to upload from your patient folder manually. I use mine to autoupload my manual scans.

And yes, re: Updox patient portal. When you send a lab report to the portal, the patient is notified and can log in to view with your notation. You can also send them a secure email with attachment enclosing the lab or a regular email attachment- all from Updox.

I do my best to give my patients all the referral documentation- it happens less often now but in the past, I would send notes and diagnostics to the specialist and they still would

not have it in front of them. I loved the look on the face of an endocrinologist when I attended my own daughter's consult appointment with him- he did not have what was faxed previously and would have wasted both our time- but my daughter pulled out her reports and gave him everything he needed.

I also give patients whom I've just given a serious diagnosis, a folder or binder that I've started for them. I encourage them to use it to collect ALL their diagnostic studies, specialist notes, notes and references from their own research to share their questions with providers ... etc. They take this to all their appointments. It might have their formulary in it if their prescription plan is problematic.

Carla Gibson

To: " " < >

Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 8:02 AM Subject: Re: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

Hi Lynn, Thanks for your response. I haven't been using the post to portal option with updox though I now see that I really should. I am using Office Ally for my EHR. Updox does not directly connect to OA. When a radiology report comes into updox, I save to a "patient data" folder on my computer. Then, I need to upload from that folder into the EHR. Quest lab results go both directly into EHR and to updox.

If I am understanding correctly, I can use the patient portal aspect of updox to allow patients to retrieve their results from

there???? ThanksMichele

To: practiceimprovement1 Sent: Thursday, March 29, 2012 9:52 AM

Subject: RE: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

MicheleNot quite understanding your work flow - can you explain a little more?If you are using updox, it is just a few more clicks to save to chart AND send to patient at the same time OR post to portal for patient

You can certainly send radiology reports through updox.If you are having to import them or sign them off it should be just as easy to do the work of sending to the patient at that time. Much faster than calling them up I can swear to that!

Agree with sending labs xrays or what they need at the time the referral to specialist is sent.also easily done through my EHR. There's got be a way! Lynn

To: From:

mrlphl@...Date: Thu, 29 Mar 2012 06:34:39 -0700Subject: how to handle volume of fax requests from specialists

Hello Everyone, I am a solo solo FM doc and feeling over-whelmed by fax requests from specialists for information prior to a consultation (last note, labs, radiology reports etc). I print from my EHR to updox and then fax. Each request only takes a few minutes but those minutes are adding up! I make a point of giving my patients a copy of their test results at their next appointment. If results are normal, however, I just give them the results over the phone. So, they may not have a copy of everything by the time the see a particular specialist. The EHR I use has a patient portal where patients can access lab results (but only those done by Quest). Patients cannot access radiology reports

through the

portal. I absolutely want the specialists to have all the information they need. Just wondering how others handle these requests. Looking for a time saving solution.

Many thanksmicheleGlen Mills, PA