Consult Process

When patients are dealing with a severe illness or injury, often, they need to see a specialist. In these cases, the primary doctor will put in a consultation, or "consult," order. But what happens next?

Well, it can be nerve-wracking to call in the consult for the first time. The good news is that it's a straightforward process. Once you see the order, simply go to the patient's record and add the requested doctor to their list. Jot down important information like the name of the doctor you'll be calling, their specialty, and the patient's information. This way, you're organized and prepared when the doctor calls back.

And don't worry; after a few consults, you'll feel like a pro!

How to Call in a Consultation as a Unit Secretary

One of the most crucial aspects of the job of a unit secretary is handling consultations. With so many patients to attend to, doctors and nurses often rely on secretaries to call in consultations and schedule appointments. 

It's a challenging task that requires impeccable organizational skills, attention to detail, and excellent communication abilities. But despite the pressure, calling in consultations can also be one of the most rewarding aspects of the job. The satisfaction of knowing that you're helping patients get the care and attention they need is unparalleled. 

So if you're considering becoming a unit secretary, you can look forward to mastering the art of calling in consultations and playing a key role in the healthcare system.

Calling in Consultations as a Health Unit Coordinator (Video)

Your confidence level and voice have to show through even when you're on the telephone calling in a consult. Ums and Uhs are okay when you are a new Health Unit Coordinator, but you should not be doing that three years into the job.  

Whenever you call in a consult, they typically ask the same questions:

1. The name of the patient
2. The patient's date of birth
3. The patient's room number
4. The nurse's name
5. The unit extension number
6. The name of the requesting physician
7. The patient's insurance information

So, speak clearly and spell out first and last names that are hard to pronounce.