GP Electronic Referral
- Details
- Last Updated: Tuesday, 13 October 2015 10:09
Aim
Mercy University Hospital was the first pilot site for the National Electronic General GP Referral System (Healthlink) for outpatient referrals.The aim of the GP electronic referral is to eliminate the use of GP letters and faxes for the purpose of referring patients, thereby increasing efficiency and improving the experience for the patient. The benefits of the electronic general GP referral include safer, streamlined referrals with the ability to track referrals from the patient's point of entry on the system to the day of appointment.
Outpatient Department (OPD)
Our OPD central appointments office now deals with all referrals from GP's for appointment to OPD clinics. On receipt, both manual and electronic GP referrals are immediately entered on the iPMS (integrated Patient Management System) waiting list prior to being sent to the consultant for triage. GP's using Healthlink receive an immediate acknowledgement electronically.
Radiology
Following on from the success of the initial project, which is now being rolled out nationally, our Radiology Department (with the assistance of the Health Service Executive (HSE) Chief Information Officer's office and Healthlink) has commenced this service for radiology requests. All radiology GP electronic referrals are received directly into the clerical office of the Radiology Department.
GP Fast Track Scheme
GP users on Healthlink have a single portal for access to diagnostic services in Radiology and OPD. The referral portal contains an additional selection area for Radiology. Should GP's wish the referral to be considered under the GP Fast Track Scheme, this should be indicated in the comments field provided.
Further Information
For further information in relation to OPD or Radiology GP electronic referrals, details can be found on the website: www.healthlink.ie.
