The need for closed-loop systems for management of abnormal test results.
Zuccotti G, Samal L, Maloney FL, et al. The Need for Closed-Loop Systems for Management of Abnormal Test Results. Ann Intern Med. 2018;168(11):820-821. doi:10.7326/M17-2425.
Failure to follow up abnormal test results can lead to a delayed or missed diagnosis. Using data from a single institution, researchers observed that while more than 99% of abnormal mammograms received appropriate follow-up, only 91% of abnormal Papanicolaou (Pap) smears did. They suggest that improving workflow processes and ensuring appropriate use of health information technology can help optimize test result follow-up.