Abstract: Separate computer systems may participate in a Health Data Network (HDN) such that the computer systems are linked so as to share various types of healthcare-related information. The shared information may include patient record information. The integration of the patient record information is accomplished by maintaining a Global Master Patient Index (GMPI). Such a GMPI may integrate patient record information used by multiple healthcare organizations, facilities, or businesses. Such a GMPI may also integrate patient record information for a single business having multiple sites or computer systems, e.g., a large hospital.

Abstract: A system and method for connecting a healthcare business to a plurality of laboratories. The system includes a client application which executes on a workstation, e.g., at a physician's office or other business. Using this application, a user may place a laboratory order (requisition) for a patient. User input specifying general requisition information is received, such as contact information for the patient, guarantor information, billing information, etc. After the requisition information has been entered, the requisition may be validated by the system. If there are errors in the information entered for the requisition, an error message may appear, and the user may be required to correct the errors. As part of performing this validation, the system may verify insurance information for the requisition, if applicable. In one embodiment, the system interfaces with a separate eligibility server to check for valid patient insurance.

Abstract: Separate computer systems may participate in a Health Data Network (HDN) such that the computer systems are linked so as to share various types of healthcare-related information. The shared information may include patient record information. The integration of the patient record information is accomplished by maintaining a Global Master Patient Index (GMPI). Such a GMPI may integrate patient record information used by multiple healthcare organizations, facilities, or businesses. Such a GMPI may also integrate patient record information for a single business having multiple sites or computer systems, e.g., a large hospital.

Abstract: A system and method for managing security for a distributed healthcare system, such as a system for placing laboratory orders and receiving test results. The network of healthcare businesses that use the system is referred to herein as a Health Data Network, or HDN. When the user log on to the system, the user connects to the system on behalf of a Health Data Network (HDN) Business. Through the user's user account, the user is linked with HDN Businesses. The user may be allowed to log on to the system on behalf of more than one HDN Business. If the user's practice has more than one location or business unit, and all orders and results are shared throughout the practice, the user's practice may be configured as a single HDN Business. In this case, the practice's data may be stored in a central location and can be accessed by all users who have the appropriate permissions.

Abstract: A system and method for connecting a healthcare business to a plurality of laboratories. The system includes a client application which executes on a workstation, e.g., at a physician's office or other business. Using this application, a user may place a laboratory order for a patient. In one embodiment, the laboratory system may utilize a Global Master Patient Index (GMPI) for maintaining patient record information across multiple healthcare sites. Thus, this GMPI information may be used in retrieving the appropriate patient record. User input specifying general requisition information is received, such as contact information for the patient, guarantor information, billing information, etc. Billing information may also be received. If a requisition was previously created for the specified patient, relative information from that requisition may populate the appropriate user interface fields. User input specifying diagnosis codes for the requisition may also received.