The Test Results Reporting and Follow-Up SAFER Guide identifies recommended safety practices intended to optimize the safety and safe use of processes and EHR technology for the electronic communication and management of test results. Processes relating to test results are vulnerable to breakdowns, requiring careful planning, implementation, and maintenance to deliver correct information promptly to the intended recipients.

In the EHR-enabled healthcare environment, clinicians rely on technology to support and manage the reporting and follow-up of test results. This guide enables the assessment of EHR-based communication of test results. It provides guidance on recommended practices to ensure that an EHR’s design and implementation help close the loop on test results to minimize the potential for errors and delays.