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In Target Facility Communication, Redirect and Decline are two distinct actions that serve different purposes in managing patient transfers. Understanding when to use each ensures accurate documentation and efficient coordination.
What is Redirect?
Redirecting a case is used when a patient has already been accepted at a facility, but something changes that requires sending the patient to a different destination before they are marked as admitted.
This typically happens when unforeseen circumstances arise—such as a shortage of a necessary medical device or resource at the originally assigned location. In this case, the patient is "diverted" to another facility that can provide the required care.
Key points about Redirect:
It happens after the patient has been accepted but before admission.
It's a way to document why the patient’s destination was changed.
Redirect reasons can be selected on the case and are typically customizable in the Dictionary settings.
The Transfer Center team continues managing the case while updating the destination facility.
Example:
A patient is accepted at Location A, but it's later discovered that a needed medical device is unavailable there. The case is marked as Redirected, and the patient is reassigned to Location B.
What is Decline?
Declining a case is used when a facility decides not to accept the patient before any confirmation or acceptance occurs.
This action is appropriate when:
A physician chooses not to provide care due to clinical reasons.
The facility is over capacity or otherwise unable to accept the patient.
Key points about Decline:
It happens before the patient is accepted.
It reflects a clear refusal to take the patient.
It is typically more common than Redirect.
Example:
A physician at a target facility declines the patient due to lack of available beds or clinical incompatibility with the facility’s services.
Summary:
Action | When to Use | Who Handles It | Status of Patient |
Redirect | After accepting a patient, but before admission, due to a change in circumstances | Transfer Center continues managing the case | Accepted but not admitted |
Decline | When the facility refuses the patient before confirming acceptance | Target facility or physician | Not accepted |
By using Redirect and Decline correctly, your team can keep communication clear and ensure accurate case tracking.