A groundbreaking new service now facilitates the sharing of test results among healthcare professionals, regardless of the treatment level, the initiating physician, or the location where the test was conducted. This initiative aims to streamline communication within the healthcare system.
“Patients can now monitor their test results easily through Helsenorge,” noted Anne Kristin Vik, business manager at Tinneberget Medical Centre.
Thorough Test Reviews
In collaboration with municipal chief physician Lars Erik Aaker Brunæs, Vik points out the importance of comprehensive review processes. Doctors will still evaluate all test results thoroughly, and patients will be informed if further action or follow-up is necessary. It’s crucial to understand that not every abnormal result requires immediate treatment.
This approach acknowledges that the reference ranges for tests do not always define a clear threshold for action. Instead, test results must be assessed within the context of a patient’s clinical examination, symptoms, and overall health situation.
A Shift from Letters
“The integration of ‘Patient’s test results’ enhances collaboration, contributes to a more holistic approach to patient care, and ultimately boosts patient safety,” Vik remarked.
This service is set to save valuable time for both professionals and patients. For instance, when a blood sample is analyzed at a hospital, the results would previously be dispatched by letter to the general practitioner (GP). Patients often had to visit their GP for results or await correspondence via email or mail. Now, results are entered digitally, enabling swift accessibility for authorized parties.
Managing Historical Data
Vik emphasized that historical test results are not currently included in this service. “Tinneberget Medical Centre is actively utilizing this new capability, but samples collected last week won’t be reflected immediately on Helsenorge,” she clarified. Patients can securely view their test results and learn more about “Patient’s test results” at Helsenorge.
A Broad Range of Disciplines
The Norwegian Health Network has established guidelines for deferred access, ensuring that healthcare personnel can communicate with patients before they see their test results personally. Presently, test results are shared across several key medical disciplines:
- Medical Biochemistry
- Medical Microbiology
- Immunology and Transfusion Medicine
- Clinical Pharmacology
- Radiology
- Nuclear Medicine
- Pathology
A Vision for the Future
“I am optimistic that the launch of this service will pave the way for the ‘Patient’s medication list,’” Vik expressed. This long-awaited initiative underscores the importance of patient safety and has been in development for several years.
The goal is for GPs, hospitals, nursing homes, pre-hospital services, and relevant practitioners to access consistent information about a patient’s test results and medication use.
“Once this second service is launched, we anticipate a significant enhancement in quality of care,” Vik concluded.