FAQ: Diagnostic Orders

FAQ: Diagnostic Orders

What is the difference between a diagnostic order and a medical case?

A medical case is the patient's overall clinical encounter or condition being managed (e.g., "acute respiratory infection"). A diagnostic order is a specific test or imaging request within or alongside that case. One case can have multiple orders. For example, a patient with pneumonia might have an X-ray order and a blood culture order as part of the same case.

Can I create a diagnostic order without linking it to a medical case?

Yes. In most facilities, standalone diagnostic orders are allowed—for example, a routine annual blood test or screening imaging. However, if your facility policy requires linking orders to cases, you may need to create or select a case first. Check with your supervisor if unsure.

What happens if I order the wrong test by mistake?

Depending on your system's configuration, you may be able to cancel the order or create a corrected order. If the test has already been performed, contact your lab supervisor or administrator. Most systems log order changes for audit purposes, so errors can be tracked and corrected without data loss.

How long does it typically take to get results back?

Result turnaround time depends on the test type and laboratory workload. Routine blood tests may return results within hours; imaging studies may take a few hours to days depending on radiologist availability. Your system may show estimated completion times for each order type. Contact your lab directly if results are overdue.

Can patients or external providers access diagnostic orders?

Access depends on your facility's configuration and permissions. Typically, only staff within your facility can create or view diagnostic orders. Patient access is usually limited to a patient portal (if your facility offers one). External providers may have limited read-only access if your facility has integration agreements with other organizations.

What should I do if a patient has a critical (abnormal) result?

Critical results must be communicated to the ordering physician immediately. Your system may trigger an automatic alert, or you may need to phone the physician directly. Never delay reporting a critical result—this is a patient safety priority. Your facility should have a documented policy for critical result notification.

Can I modify an order after it is created?

In most systems, once an order is created and sent to the lab, you cannot change the test type or patient. However, you may be able to add notes or cancel the order if it has not yet been processed. Contact your lab administrator if you need to modify an order that is already in progress.

How do I print or export a diagnostic result?

Most systems allow you to view results and use your browser's print function, or export results to PDF or other formats. The exact steps depend on your system. Look for a Print or Export option on the result page, or contact your IT support.