Ask ECRI: Receiving Test Results for Inactive Patients

​A risk manager recently sought guidance on what to do when the facility receives laboratory test results or emergency room (ER) medical logs for patients who are no longer being seen.

In our response, ECRI Institute noted that by providing the ER, urgent care center, or laboratory with the name of the facility, that patient is indicating that they are still in need of or and want the facility's services. They may not have previously needed or wanted it, but an event such as an ED visit can be an impetus to change that. Therefore, if a facility receives clinical information on a patient, even inactive patients, it should be added to that patient's medical record. The information should be documented formally and objectively, consistent with...