Patient Access and Scheduling: high-yield desk drill

The rule

Two identifiers, then the record. Do not delay an emergency screening for insurance. Do not diagnose on the phone.

Next step

Search the MPI before creating a chart. A gated slot without authorization is pending.

Never miss

• Duplicates are a safety event.
• EMTALA bars payment questions before the required screening.
• A referral is not done until the visit happens or the loop is closed.
• ABN, HIPAA notice, and consent are different documents.

Traps

• Creating a third chart.
• Inventing an authorization number.
• Using a child as interpreter.

Shortcuts

• Order, auth, prep.
• Eligibility is a dated fact.
• Closed loop has a next date.

Terms

• MPI. Master patient index. Prevents duplicate charts.
• EMTALA. No delay of emergency screening for money questions.
• Clearance. Identity, coverage, authorization, and estimate are true today.

Memory hooks

• TWO-THEN-BOOK. Identify, then schedule Front desk.