Laboratory Medicine Handoff Gaps Experienced by Primary Care Practices: A Report from the Shared Networks of Collaborative Ambulatory Practices and Partners (SNOCAP)

摘要

Background: The majority of errors in laboratory medicine testing are thought to occur in the pre- and postanalytic testing phases, and a large proportion of these errors are secondary to failed handoffs. Because most laboratory tests originate in ambulatory primary care, understanding the gaps in handoff processes within and between laboratories and practices is imperative for patient safety. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to understand, based on information from primary care practice personnel, the perceived gaps in laboratory processes as a precursor to initiating process improvement activities.