When is it appropriate for a radiologist to directly order a DI test?
When expediting care is the right thing to do.
An ultrasound shows an urgent and obvious need for more detailed diagnostic imaging – but the radiologist can’t reach the referring physician. To expedite care, the College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta says in some cases the radiologist should arrange the next DI test, then follow-up with the referring physician.
An important message for all physicians in this month’s The Messenger (www.mailoutinteractive.com/Industry/LandingPage.aspx?id=2103310&p=1)
New timeframes proposed for Referral Consultation standard
Transfer of Care & Collaboration in Patient Care standards also part of CPSA Consultation 011
The College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta is proposing an amendment to the Referral Consultation standard of practice following a recommendation in the Health Quality Council of Alberta’s Continuity of Care study (2013). The amendment aims to make the process better for patients, prevent unnecessary delays in treatment and clarify the roles of referring and consulting physicians.
Consultation 011 also includes a draft amendment to the Transfer of Care standard of practice (incorporating Completing Discharge Summaries) and Collaboration in Patient Care, which will be rescinded with Council approval.
You can review the draft amendments and submit your comments at bit.ly/CPSAconsult, or email consultation@cpsa.ab.ca.
Feedback is due by June 7, 2016.
