Under a new federal rule, patients from anywhere in the United States can now view test results from diagnostic information service providers without first being authorized by a physician. To help individuals receive access and track their lab and other health data, Quest Diagnostics has launched MyQuest by Care360 at a highly secure patient portal that enables patients to view copies of their lab test reports from Quest Diagnostics.
Although patients may now directly access lab data, diagnostic information service providers have until October 6, 2014, to comply with the rule’s requirement to provide lab data upon request nationwide. Quest has provided several channels for patients to request and receive their lab reports in select states where direct patient access had been allowed prior to the new federal rule. In addition to lab results, the portal enables users to view other health information, such as provider contact lists and medication reminders, and facilitates online appointment scheduling at one of Quest’s 2,200 patient service centers in the U.S.
The patient portal is also designed to help physicians who use the Quest Diagnostics Care360 Electronic Health Record (EHR) to qualify for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) EHR Incentive Program. Stage 2 of the Meaningful Use program, which focuses on electronic engagement with patients, begins this year for providers that have participated in the program for at least two years. Physicians who use the Quest Diagnostics Care360 EHR can securely provide information and clinical summaries to patients who are registered on the MyQuest by Care360 portal, fulfilling the program requirements. Learn more about MyQuest by Care360.
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