SAFER-8 Test Results Reporting and Follow-Up

A Resource Developed by the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology

The Test Results Reporting and Follow-Up SAFER Guide identifies recommended safety practices intended to optimize the safety and safe use of processes and EHR technology for the electronic communication and management of diagnostic test results. Processes relating to test results are fragile, requiring careful planning, implementation, and maintenance to deliver correct information promptly to the intended recipients.

In the EHR-enabled healthcare environment, providers rely on technology to support and manage the reporting and follow-up of test results. This guide offers recommended practices related to the content and communication of test results to the clinician, as well as recommended practices related to the documentation and follow-up of test results.