Women’s Group of Franklin Improves the Patient Experience With Streamlined Referrals

Women’s Group of Franklin (WGF), an independent private practice providing obstetrics and gynecological care to Middle Tennessee women since 2001, has long recognized the value of the patient-centered medical neighborhood. The practice was an early adopter of streamlined referral processes that better align primary and specialty care services with the ultimate goal of improving the patient experience.

Practice leaders’ innovative thinking on referrals led to the development of a tailored referral form, which defines the parameters for episodic care, co-management and transfers of care. The practice shares test information and other outcomes with both the patient and providers.

The practice also maintains an efficient referral management tracking system. When WGF receives a referral from a primary care provider, they ensure it contains the patient’s clinical and testing history to avoid duplication of services and ensure appropriate scheduling. The system also tracks referred patient visits in the EHR. According to Heather Rupe, DO, “referring providers have responded positively to this mutually beneficial relationship and process.”

WGF leaders are now focused on meeting quality and utilization metrics. After its top performance in the four-year CMS Transforming Clinical Practice Initiative (TCPi), a nationwide practice transformation program, WGF was able to make the transition from a fee-for-service to a value-based payment system. The practice continues to leverage data-driven and process-oriented approaches in its quest for continuous improvements.

To learn more about how the Women’s Group of Franklin has advanced the patient experience with more efficient processes, watch this video on the VHAN Hub.