How can you overcome challenges when using electronic referral systems?

1 Understand the system

Before you start using an ERS, make sure you understand how it works, what features it offers, and what requirements it has. For example, you may need to create an account, register your practice, upload your credentials, or comply with certain standards. You may also need to familiarize yourself with the interface, the functions, and the options of the ERS. You can consult the user manual, the online tutorials, or the support team of the ERS provider for guidance.

2 Communicate clearly and effectively

One of the benefits of ERS is that it allows you to communicate with other providers in a timely and secure manner. However, this also means that you need to be clear and effective in your communication. For example, when you send a referral, you should include relevant information, such as the reason for referral, the urgency, the patient's history, and the tests or treatments done or needed. You should also specify your expectations and preferences, such as the type of consultation, the follow-up plan, or the feedback method. Similarly, when you receive a referral, you should acknowledge it, review it, and respond to it as soon as possible. You should also provide clear and concise feedback, such as the diagnosis, the recommendations, the outcomes, or the next steps.

3 Integrate the system into your workflow

Another challenge of ERS is that it may disrupt your existing workflow or create extra work for you and your staff. To avoid this, you should try to integrate the system into your workflow as smoothly as possible. For example, you may need to adjust your scheduling, your documentation, or your billing processes to accommodate the ERS. You may also need to train your staff on how to use the system, how to handle referrals, and how to troubleshoot problems. You should also monitor and evaluate the performance and the impact of the ERS on your practice and your patients, and make adjustments as needed.

4 Collaborate and cooperate with other providers

Finally, ERS can also help you improve your collaboration and cooperation with other providers, which can enhance the quality and continuity of care for your patients. However, this also requires that you respect and trust each other, and that you follow some common rules and standards. For example, you should respect the roles and responsibilities of each provider, and avoid overstepping or undermining them. You should also respect the privacy and confidentiality of the patients and the providers, and follow the ethical and legal guidelines for ERS. You should also cooperate and coordinate with other providers, and avoid duplication or contradiction of services. You should also seek and provide feedback, and learn from each other's experiences and expertise.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?