Increased patient communication using a process supplementing an electronic medical record

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Public Health
• Gynecologic Oncology

Background:

• Long-term surveillance for cervical cytology abnormalities poses management challenges.
• Effective communication and tracking are crucial for patient safety and quality improvement.
• National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) certification emphasizes these aspects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a computer-based tracking system for cervical cytology abnormalities.
• To determine if the system improves accurate/timely results communication.
• To assess if the system enhances patient adherence to follow-up recommendations.

Main Methods:

• Pre/post study design (2005-2012) with intervention in 2008.
• Chart review of women with abnormal cytology (N=72 pre, N=128 post).
• Intervention involved monthly spreadsheet review and patient reminders for non-compliance.

Main Results:

• Clinician-to-patient communication errors decreased significantly (6.4% to 1.6%, P=0.04).
• Patient adherence to follow-up recommendations showed no significant change (76.1% to 78.0%, P=0.78).

Conclusions:

• A non-EMR-embedded tracking system enhanced communication of abnormal cervical cytology results.
• The system did not lead to significant improvements in patient adherence to recommended care.
• While meeting NCQA PCMH standards, the system's impact on patient outcomes was limited.