Communication Matters – Exchange of Information between SNF and PCPs Post-discharge!
| Date: | April 17, 2020 |
| To: | HPSJ Providers: Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) |
| From: | HPSJ Utilization Management Department |
| Subject: | Communication Matters – Exchange of Information between SNF and PCPs Post-discharge! |
| Business: | Medi-Cal |
Skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) are a very important component in the continuum of care. Sharing information about the patient’s care helps the primary care practitioners better manage their patient.
- Perceived lack of authority to share information
- Time constraints and increased workload
- Interruptions in workflow
- Complexity of the medical conditions restricting ability to share information
- Limitations of the communication medium and accuracy of contact information
- Incompatible information systems
- Misinterpretations of privacy concerns related to the Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act (HIPAA)
Best practices and standards of care mean that the following information be shared with the PCPs at the time of the discharge:
- Reason(s) for admission into skilled nursing facility
- Significant findings/events during the stay
- Procedures performed and care, treatment and services provided during the stay at the SNF
- Patient’s condition at the time of discharge from the SNF
- Information/education provided to the patient and their caregiver
WHAT WE ASK FROM YOU:
- Educate patients on the importance of sharing their information with their PCPs
- Get patients to sign a “release of information” form at the time of the admission
We understand that sharing discharge summaries with PCPs is an additional administrative step for your organization and staff, but it is a critical step that can go a long way in improving outcomes for patients.
If you have questions about factors that limit your ability to share information, please call HPSJ at 209-942-6320 so we can help.
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