Using the Patient Portal

Communication

Test results

• Notify the patient if their lab results will be available via the portal and the time frame in which they can expect to see the information.
• Some test results may first require a clinician’s review and additional notes before the information is made available to the patient.

Inappropriate use

• Any inappropriate use of the portal by a patient (e.g. sending too many messages through the service) will be dealt with on an individual basis.
• If a patient consistently abuses the service, their access may be disabled. The patient will be informed that this has been done and why, and the information will be noted on their patient record.

Withholding information

A clinician may decide that significant results and some other patient health information should not be made available via the portal. In cases where a patient has likely seen sensitive information on the portal, use discretion to manage the situation as soon as possible. Patients must still be able to access their complete health record from the practice.

Correction of records

Any request to alter information on a health record is forwarded to the appropriate clinician.

If a patient provides information they want included in their record, it must be clearly distinguished from clinical notes.

If the clinician determines that the information should not be altered:

1. Add a note to the patient’s record detailing the request.
2. Note why the patient wanted their information altered.
3. Briefly outline the reason for the refusal.
4. Inform the patient that their request has been refused and why.