Automated reminders do not always improve follow-up of abnormal test results.
In an attempt to increase the rate of documented follow-up of abnormal lab test results, an automated one-week-later reminder module was added to our lab data system. Provision of reminders to providers did not produce the expected improvement. It appears that in clinics with difficult access to conventional patient records, reminders do not improve documentation, and may elicit resistance and resentment.
D002140:California; D019411:Clinical Laboratory Techniques / Q000592:standards; D003201:Computers; D003266:Continuity of Patient Care; D005194:Family Practice / Q000193:education; D006801:Humans; D008499:Medical Records; D011320:Primary Health Care; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care