Requesting a Lab Interface: A Seamless Integration Process

SigmaMD offers an electronic bi-directional lab interface with major diagnostic laboratories like Quest, LabCorp, and others, allowing practices to streamline lab order management and integrate results directly into patient charts. This article outlines the step-by-step process for requesting a lab interface and highlights the benefits of this seamless integration.

Step 1: Interface Request Initiation

A member of the SigmaMD support team will start the bi-directional lab interface request with Change Healthcare for the practice's preferred diagnostic lab providers. Change Healthcare will then take charge of initiating the interface request with the diagnostic providers.

Step 2: Receive Interface Request Number

Once the interface request is initiated, a unique Interface request number will be provided to SigmaMD. This number will be used for tracking and communication throughout the process.

Step 3: Collaboration with Lab Account Manager

At this point, both the practice and their lab account manager will be informed of the interface request number. The practice should work closely with their lab account manager to get the interface request approved by the diagnostic lab.

Step 4: Approval and Interface Setup

Upon approval by the diagnostic lab, an analyst at the lab will be assigned to the case, and they will contact Change Healthcare to set up the interface. In most cases, a test order will be submitted by SigmaMD, and results will be received to validate the new bi-directional interface. However, this step is not always necessary.

Benefits of the Lab Interface

The electronic bi-directional lab interface offers significant advantages to practices, such as:

• Lab orders are made directly from the patient chart, streamlining the process.
• Lab results are automatically integrated into the patient charts, eliminating manual data entry and potential errors.
• No cost to the practice or the diagnostic provider for setting up the interface.

Please note that the process from start to finish may take several weeks due to coordination with the diagnostic lab and setting up the interface. It's essential to plan accordingly and communicate with all parties involved.

Requesting a lab interface with SigmaMD is a simple and rewarding process, enhancing the efficiency of lab order management and patient care. By following these steps and collaborating with SigmaMD support and the lab account manager, practices can enjoy the benefits of seamless lab integration in their SigmaMD account.