The study, published Nov. 15 in JAMA Network Open, analyzed 4,133 diagnostic tests and referrals from March 2020 to December 2021 at a large, urban hospital-based primary care practice and an affiliated community health center in Boston.
Diagnostic tests and referrals, which included colonoscopies, cardiac stress test and dermatology referrals, were completed 58.4% of the time when ordered during in-person visits and 42.6% of the time when ordered during telehealth visits.
“Failure to close diagnostic loops presents a patient safety challenge in primary care that may be of particular concern during telehealth encounters,” the study authors wrote.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
