Implementation Checklist

Implementation Checklist

 (MOA) denotes a task you can delegate to your Medical Office Assistant.

1. Inform your colleagues

• Use the Physician FAQ as a guide to explain the rationale and recommendations for routine HIV testing to colleagues.

2. Engage your MOAs

• Explain rationale for routine HIV testing (as above)
• Review everyone’s duty under the Health Professions Act to maintain confidentiality around  information contained in all medical reports
• Delegate as much of the office preparation as possible (see below).

3. Choose a START DATE

• Write it down: _________________ and enter it into your calendars.

4. Display information for patients

• Print HealthLinkBC  ”Health File” patient information handout (available in English, Chinese, French, Punjabi, Spanish and Vietnamese); make available in exam rooms and waiting area (MOA)
• Order or print posters; display in exam rooms and waiting area (MOA)

Tip: Email hiv.cpd@ubc.ca to request posters.

5. Set up reminder systems

What reminder systems do you already use and that work for you? Some physicians have found it helpful to:

• Prepare lab requisitions (MOA)
  • “Highlight” HIV testing on paper requisition with a bright colour; change highlighter colour every month or so to reduce habituation (MOA)
  • “Highlight” HIV testing on EMR requisition template in a bright colour, or by whatever other means your EMR allows (MOA)
• Set up chart reminders (MOA)
  • EMR reminders e.g. for all adults; add HIV test offer to patient summary (MOA)
  • Paper Chart reminders e.g. sticker on front sheet when test results are filed (MOA)
• Create memory aides
  • Visual reminder for you in your exam room –  HIV testing poster in your line of sight; a flower on your desk (MOA)

Tip: Ask your MOA to set up a variety of reminders at different times to reduce habituation.

6. Set a target

• Choose an easy target at first, e.g. 2 tests per day.

7. START TESTING

• Use the Offering a Test resource for suggested wording for your test offer and recommendation
• Give your patient the HealthLinkBC  ”Health File” with their lab requisition

8. Review your progress

• Revise and reset your targets, aim to increase weekly. Reward yourself!