Abstract: An automated networked service request and fulfillment system and method includes "client" computer systems in the offices of professionals such as doctors, and "sponsor" computers at the sites of service providers such as test labs or insurance companies, interconnected with a mail server system that exchanges e-mail messages via the Internet or a similar network. "Service requests", such as ordering a medical test or requesting authorization for a particular procedure, are prepared using a client system and automatically e-mailed to the sponsor system of an appropriate service provider. The request is fulfilled and the results e-mailed back to the requesting client system using the mail server system. Confidentiality is insured by encrypting all e-mail messages. The system includes a "universal interface" component which automates the process of converting data records found in existing databases into the data record format required by the new system.