How to Order Tests at Quest Diagnostics as a Physician?

How to Order Tests at Quest Diagnostics as a Physician?

Ordering tests at Quest Diagnostics as a physician involves a streamlined process of electronic or paper requisition, ensuring patient information is accurately documented, tests are selected appropriately, and results are readily available; this guide provides a definitive walkthrough on how to order tests at Quest Diagnostics as a physician.

Introduction to Quest Diagnostics Testing for Physicians

Quest Diagnostics is a leading provider of diagnostic information services, offering a wide range of tests that aid in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of various medical conditions. For physicians, efficiently ordering these tests is crucial for delivering timely and effective patient care. Understanding the different methods available, the necessary documentation, and the online resources offered by Quest can significantly improve the testing process. This guide details how to order tests at Quest Diagnostics as a physician, covering every crucial aspect from account setup to result interpretation.

Benefits of Using Quest Diagnostics

Utilizing Quest Diagnostics for your patient’s diagnostic needs offers several key advantages:

• Comprehensive Test Menu: Access to a vast array of tests, from routine blood work to highly specialized molecular diagnostics.
• Extensive Network: A broad network of patient service centers (PSCs) ensures convenient specimen collection for patients.
• Advanced Technology: State-of-the-art laboratories equipped with cutting-edge technology for accurate and reliable results.
• Electronic Ordering and Results: Efficient online platforms for ordering tests and accessing results, streamlining workflow.
• Dedicated Support: Access to medical science liaisons and customer support teams for assistance with test selection and interpretation.

The Ordering Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

The process of how to order tests at Quest Diagnostics as a physician involves several key steps, whether you choose to use electronic ordering or paper requisitions:

1. Account Setup (if new): Create a physician account with Quest Diagnostics. This usually involves providing your medical license information, practice details, and billing information. Contact your local Quest representative for assistance.

2. Choosing Your Ordering Method:

   • Electronic Ordering (QuestDirect and Care360): Preferred for efficiency and reduced errors. Requires setting up an account and familiarizing yourself with the chosen platform.
   • Paper Requisition: Still available, but less efficient and prone to errors. Requisitions must be filled out completely and accurately.

3. Patient Information: Regardless of the ordering method, you must accurately input patient demographics, including:

   • Full name
   • Date of birth
   • Gender
   • Address
   • Phone number
   • Insurance information (if applicable)

4. Test Selection: Carefully select the appropriate tests based on the patient’s clinical presentation and medical history. Utilize Quest Diagnostics’ test directory or consult with a medical science liaison if needed. Consider the following when choosing the tests:

   • Specific analytes required.
   • CPT codes for billing accuracy.
   • Special handling requirements (e.g., fasting, timed collection).

5. Ordering the Test:

   • Electronically: Use the online platform to select the patient, enter the tests, and submit the order.
   • Paper Requisition: Fill out the requisition form completely, ensuring all information is legible.

6. Providing Instructions to the Patient: Instruct the patient on how to prepare for the test (e.g., fasting), where to go for specimen collection (a local PSC), and what to bring (identification and insurance card). Provide them with a copy of the requisition if applicable.

7. Accessing Results: Once the testing is complete, results will be available through the online portal or sent via fax or mail, depending on your preference.

Electronic Ordering: QuestDirect and Care360

Quest Diagnostics offers two primary electronic ordering platforms for physicians:

• QuestDirect (for Patient-Initiated Testing): This platform allows patients to order certain tests directly without a physician’s order in some states. Physicians can review and interpret the results when requested.

• Care360: This is Quest Diagnostics’ integrated health IT solution that allows physicians to electronically order tests, view results, and manage patient information securely. It integrates with many electronic health record (EHR) systems.

Key Considerations for Accurate Test Ordering

• ICD-10 Codes: Providing the correct ICD-10 codes is crucial for billing accuracy and medical necessity.
• Medical Necessity: Ensure that the tests ordered are medically necessary based on the patient’s condition.
• Fasting Requirements: Clearly communicate fasting instructions to patients when required for specific tests.
• Specimen Collection: Be aware of specific specimen collection requirements, such as tube type, volume, and handling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incomplete Requisitions: Ensure all sections of the requisition are filled out completely and accurately.
• Incorrect Test Selection: Double-check that you have selected the correct tests for the patient’s condition.
• Missing Patient Information: Omission of critical patient demographics can delay processing and reporting.
• Incorrect ICD-10 Coding: Using incorrect or outdated ICD-10 codes can lead to claim denials.
• Failure to Communicate Instructions: Patients need clear instructions on test preparation and collection procedures.

Utilizing Quest Diagnostics Resources

Quest Diagnostics provides a variety of resources to assist physicians in the testing process:

• Test Directory: A comprehensive online resource that provides information on all available tests, including CPT codes, specimen requirements, and interpretive information.
• Medical Science Liaisons: Dedicated professionals who can provide support with test selection, interpretation, and new test development.
• Customer Support: Available to answer questions regarding ordering, billing, and result delivery.
• Training Materials: Online tutorials and guides on using the electronic ordering platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I set up a new account with Quest Diagnostics as a physician?

To establish an account, you’ll need to contact your local Quest Diagnostics representative or visit the Quest Diagnostics website. You’ll typically be asked to provide your medical license information, practice details, billing information, and complete necessary paperwork.

What are the different ways I can order tests at Quest Diagnostics?

You can order tests electronically through QuestDirect (for patient-initiated testing) or Care360, or by using paper requisitions. Electronic ordering is generally preferred for its efficiency and accuracy.

How do I access patient test results?

Results are typically accessible through the electronic ordering platform you use (Care360) or can be delivered via fax or mail, depending on your communication preferences established during account setup.

What if I need help selecting the appropriate tests for my patient?

Quest Diagnostics offers several resources, including a comprehensive test directory on their website and access to medical science liaisons who can provide expert guidance on test selection and interpretation.

What are the common causes of test order rejection?

Common causes include incomplete or inaccurate requisition forms, missing patient information, incorrect ICD-10 coding, and lack of medical necessity documentation.

How do I handle add-on tests (adding a test to an existing order)?

Add-on tests can usually be requested electronically through Care360. However, this is contingent on the specimen stability and the time elapsed since the original collection. Check the add-on test stability requirements.

How do I obtain paper requisition forms?

You can request paper requisition forms from your local Quest Diagnostics representative or download them from the Quest Diagnostics website.

What is the process for reporting a critical value result?

Quest Diagnostics has established protocols for reporting critical values immediately. You will typically be contacted directly by a laboratory professional to discuss the critical result.

How do I update my contact information with Quest Diagnostics?

You can update your contact information through your online account or by contacting Quest Diagnostics customer support.

What do I do if I suspect an error in the test result?

If you suspect an error, contact Quest Diagnostics’ customer service or medical science liaison immediately to discuss the discrepancy and potentially request a retest.

Is it possible to order tests for research purposes?

Yes, Quest Diagnostics offers services for research and clinical trials. Contact Quest Diagnostics’ dedicated research services team for more information.

What security measures are in place to protect patient data when ordering tests online?

Quest Diagnostics utilizes robust security measures, including encryption and access controls, to protect patient data and maintain HIPAA compliance when ordering tests online. Care360 is HIPAA-compliant.