Abstract
Objectives: Harris Health System (HHS) is a safety net system providing health care to the underserved of Harris County, Texas. There was a 6-month waiting period for a rheumatologist consult for patients with suspected systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The objective of the intervention was to improve access to specialty care. Methods: An algorithmic approach to testing for SLE was implemented initially through the HHS referral center. The algorithm was further offered as a "one-click" order for physicians, with automated reflex testing, interpretation, and case triaging by clinical pathology. Results: Data review revealed that prior to the intervention, 80% of patients did not have complete laboratory workups available at the first rheumatology visit. Implementation of algorithmic testing and triaging of referrals by pathologists resulted in decreasing the waiting time for a rheumatologist by 50%. Conclusions: Clinical pathology intervention and case triaging can improve access to care in a county health care system.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 312-318 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | American journal of clinical pathology |
Volume | 146 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Sep 1 2016 |
Keywords
- Algorithmic testing
- Clinical pathology
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Pathology and Forensic Medicine