·       Specify what data are to be labeled and tracked during specimen processing and delivery, and result review and notification

-        Name of ordering physician

-        Patient name and identifier

-        Type of test

-        Date test is scheduled

-        Date test is conducted

-        Facility that conducts the test

-        Date results are reviewed

-        Name of result reviewer

-        Patient notification date

·       Establish clear protocol of when and how results are logged, filed, reviewed and communicated to patients

·       Document each step of laboratory/pathology specimen tracking and notificationàreview on a regular basis for mishaps or discrepancies

-        Paper log book, filing systems for patient charts or laboratory/pathology order forms, or computer system

-        Multiple checks and balances (e.g., separate documentation procedures for patient chart and organization’s tracking system; automated reminders for biopsy orders that require follow-up)

·       Explain (orally and with written material e.g., flow charts) and ensure patient understanding of result notification process

-        When to expect results

-        How results will be communicated e.g., by letter, fax, phone call, automated telecommunications system, or follow-up appointment

-        Encourage patients to call if they haven’t heard anything by a certain date)

·       Ensure patients complete and sign the HIPAA form indicating their contact preferences

·       Notify patients of positive and negative results

-        Employ more urgent communication methods e.g., immediate phone call from physician for critical or complicated results

·       Ensure that no results are filed without reviewer initials and patient notification

·       Mechanism to ensure that patients are tracked until the positive finding is treated or the patient refuses treatment

-        Staff are alerted to patients who fail to keep their follow-up appointments when results need to be delivered or findings need to be treated