Utilizing eConsult to Increase Access to Specialty Care and Reduce Disparities in the Safety Net

April 16, 2019 | 10:45 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. CDT

Traditional processes for specialty referrals are overwhelmingly inefficient, particularly in the safety net. The limited communication between PCPs and Specialists and lack of transparency for patients leads to inappropriate referrals, missed appointments and frustration from all parties. Facing long wait times and inconvenient access, underserved populations too often are not getting the care that they need – furthering the gap in health disparities. With limited resources or incentives to see safety-net patients, how can primary care providers overcome these barriers and ensure their patients receive the quality of care they deserve?

This session will explore the opportunity of eConsult to improve access, efficiency and proper utilization of specialty services; and how this type of digital communication can empower safety-net providers to deliver coordinated, quality care in the right setting.

Speaker:

• Cheryl Lulias, CEO, Medical Home Network