How are patients reacting to online medical test results?

Introduction

More Americans are learning of devastating health diagnoses through their phones and computers instead of personally from their doctors due to a federal requirement for immediate access to medical test results.

The Debate

This shift has sparked a debate in the medical community about whether instant information empowers patients or harms them.

Impact of the Cures Act

The new medical landscape resulting from a bipartisan law promoting transparency has exposed fault lines in a stressed health-care system.

Patient Experiences

Mike Day’s cancer diagnosis arrived while he lounged in his living room. His wife spotted “adenocarcinoma” in biopsy results posted online. After struggling to get an appointment, they ended up in an emergency room, where the prognosis was discussed in a crowded hallway.

“Getting medical results shouldn’t be like tracking a DoorDash order,” said Andrew Day, Mike’s son. “It’s unconscionable that information is out there to just gobsmack a family without having a proper conversation about it.”

Medical Professionals’ Perspectives

Medical associations have been advocating for more time for doctors to release records revealing serious diagnoses. Some patients report feeling empowered, while others panic over alarming results that may be misinterpreted.

Challenges Faced by Doctors

Danielle Ofri, a primary care physician, dedicates time to review scans and call anxious patients. However, such efforts are often unreimbursed, adding to the burden on healthcare providers.

Misunderstandings and Miscommunication

Misunderstandings are common; patients often misinterpret medical jargon. Ofri emphasizes that simply providing results without context can lead to unnecessary anxiety.

Regulatory Responses

The American Medical Association has lobbied for a rule allowing physicians 72 hours to inform patients before releasing life-altering results. Some states have enacted similar laws.

Patient Autonomy vs. Anxiety

Experts suggest that while patients desire immediate access to results, it can lead to increased anxiety. A study found that 96% of patients wanted immediate results, yet 7.5% felt more worried after seeing them without a doctor’s input.

Conclusion

Access to medical records has transformed patient care, but it has also introduced complexities that require careful navigation. As healthcare evolves, ongoing research is essential to understand the implications of this transparency.

Aaron Gregg contributed to this report.