The use of electronic referrals (eReferrals) is being introduced as a statewide project through eHealth NSW and HealthLink in response to GP feedback that the existing referral processes are too time consuming. An eReferral is an electronic document that can be sent electronically from one health care service to another, which can improve the quality and safety of referral processes, ease of use, avoid wastage and minimise patient delay in accessing ambulatory care services. The eReferral management system has been designed and built in collaboration with eHealth NSW, the Ministry of Health, and representatives from across the state.
Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) has partnered with HealthLink to enable eReferrals to be sent directly from general practice medical records systems to WSLHD outpatient services. Through HealthLink eReferrals, referrers will receive a notification when the referral has been received by the WSLHD service, which gives them and their patients peace of mind, and reduces time with referrers no longer having to follow up or generate multiple referrals.
Information for General Practices and Referrers
HealthLink eReferrals can be integrated within the following software programs for free:
- Best Practice
- Genie
- Medical Director
- Medtech Evolution
- Shexie Platinum
- Zedmed
From these software programs, users can select a form, automatically pre-populate data from the electronic patient record, have it validated, send it securely to the intended recipient and receive a receipt electronically. A copy of the form will also be automatically stored securely in the patient’s record.
Tutorials and user guides on how to integrate HealthLink with your practice management system can be found online.
Alternatively, practices can use MyHealthLink Portal, an online portal that enables health care providers to submit eReferrals via a web browser. You can watch a tutorial video to learn about how MyHealthLink Portal works.
Introduction to eReferrals in Western Sydney
From 22 November 2023, gastroenterology and gynaecology outpatient services at Blacktown Hospital will transition to electronic referrals via HealthLink eReferral.
From 2024, more WSLHD services will be accessible through eReferrals to hospitals and community health services in Cumberland, Mount Druitt and Westmead. More information about the development of eReferrals will be announced soon.
Last month, we hosted a webinar with eHealth NSW, HealthLink and WSLHD to help GPs, nurses, practice managers and practice staff in Western Sydney:
- Understand the eReferral solution scope and specific services at Blacktown Outpatient clinics
- Learn how to access Smartform via HealthLink to create an eReferral
- Understand communication via electronic Referral Management Systems (eRMS) to send additional information and receive notification on receipt and outcome of the referral
To watch the webinar, please enter the code: 4PaG=u^$
Visit our webpage for more information about eReferrals in Western Sydney.
9 November 2023