Why one schedule does not work
Applying the same interval to every patient over-monitors low-risk patients and under-monitors those whose risk has changed. A risk-based framework matches intensity to the individual.
Defining risk tiers
Most frameworks use three tiers with written criteria for each, so any provider in the practice reaches the same conclusion for the same patient.
Reassessment
Risk is not fixed at intake. The framework should state when reassessment happens and what triggers a change in tier.
Documenting the decision
The record should show the tier, the reason for it and the interval that follows. That is what makes the program defensible under review.
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This article is general education for healthcare professionals and is not clinical, legal, coding or reimbursement advice. Clinical decisions remain with the treating healthcare provider. Toxicology Management Services is not a laboratory; laboratory testing is performed by qualified laboratory partners. Never submit patient information through this website.
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