decisionhealth Newsletters, Part B News - 2015 Issue 2 (February)
Pre-screen patients, isolate if needed when infection threat rises
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Article Overview
This article explains how medical practices can respond when patients may present infection risks, with emphasis on front-office screening, waiting-room separation, isolation precautions, and staff protection. It also addresses the practice-management and legal considerations that can arise if a provider chooses not to see certain patients. The content is relevant to physicians, office staff, practice managers, and health care administrators who need broad guidance on handling infectious-risk situations safely and consistently.
Why This Topic Matters
Infection-control decisions can affect patient safety, staff safety, workflow, and legal exposure. Understanding the operational and policy issues helps practices prepare appropriate procedures before a contagious-risk situation occurs.
Article Sections
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Front office matters
Introduces office-based precautions for handling patients who may present contagion concerns. Covers intake, waiting-room organization, and general practice readiness.
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Separate waiting areas
Discusses separating patients by risk level in the office environment. Focuses on how practices may organize space and patient flow when infection concerns arise.
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Do full phone triage
Describes pre-visit screening through telephone or similar intake processes. Addresses gathering relevant information before the patient arrives and coordinating next steps when risk is identified.
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Have an infectious-patient protocol
Covers the need for internal procedures when an infectious-risk patient will enter the practice. Mentions staff notification, segregation, and preparedness measures.
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If you decide not to treat certain patients
Explores practice-policy and legal considerations related to declining to see certain patients. Includes high-level discussion of rights, licensure concerns, and potential abandonment issues.
What You Will Learn
- How practices can organize front-office screening for patients with possible infection risk
- What broad office precautions may help reduce exposure in waiting and treatment areas
- Why staff preparation and internal protocols matter when contagious illness is suspected
- What general legal and policy issues may arise when a provider declines treatment
- How infection-control concerns intersect with patient access and practice management
Who Should Read This
- Physicians
- Nurse practitioners
- Physician assistants
- Medical office staff
- Practice managers
- Health care administrators
- Compliance personnel
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