To Text or Not to Text . . . That is the Question: TJC Publishes Updated Guidance for Healthcare Providers
After collaborating on this issue with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), TJC remains concerned that using secure text messaging to transmit orders may impact patient safety. In particular, among other issues, TJC is concerned that text orders may increase the burden on nurses to manually transcribe orders into the EHR and texting does not allow real-time communication, clarification and confirmation of orders in the same way as a verbal conversation. Therefore, TJC-accredited providers should ensure their policies and procedures prohibit text orders and implement these additional recommendations from TJC:
- All healthcare organizations should have policies prohibiting the use of unsecured text messaging; that is, short message service (SMS) text messaging from a personal mobile device - for communicating protected health information.
- TJC and CMS agree that computerized provider order entry (CPOE) should be the preferred method for submitting orders as it allows providers to directly enter orders into the electronic health record (EHR).
- In the event that a CPOE or written order cannot be submitted, a verbal order is acceptable.
TJC says that it will continue to monitor advancements in the field and engage with key stakeholders to see if future guidance is necessary with respect to the use of secure text messaging for placement of orders.
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