The Issue – How do you assure compliance with directions you give to patients?

You would think that when a patient is referred to a specialist for follow-up tests or an examination, they would be compliant. My practice instituted a “tickler” system and was amazed at how often patients did not follow directions.

One of the most important referrals a general Ob-Gyn can make is when we refer a patient with a breast lump to a general surgeon – here you would think there would be 100% compliance. We found compliance to be only 90% for these referrals.  When the system indicated the patient had not followed-up, our staff would call the patient only to hear a list of excuses – the baby was sick that day – the surgeon cancelled the appointment – the lump isn’t painful, etc.  It was only after this additional contact that the patient would actually comply.

Obviously, this call cannot be made if you are unaware of the noncompliance in the first place.

Noncompliance on ordered tests was even worse. Many patients simply do not follow directions, and unless you have a tracking system in place – you are playing a dangerous game with your patients’ lives, as well as your practice. Many malpractice cases stem from a lack of communication between physicians, staff and patients.

SecuReach is designed to prevent this from occurring in your practice.