For outside reference labs that do the reportable lab results, what is the hospital’s obligation to make sure that the reference lab is capable of doing this and is actually doing it? Our reference lab was not at all clear whether or not they can do this, or if they even have plans to do so.

The public health agency should provide documentation either on their website or as part of your onboarding documentation as to whether they require dual or singular reporting. Agencies that require dual reporting expect both the ordering and performing facilities to submit reportable results. Agencies that require reporting from the performing lab only will establish the required transmission protocols with the reference lab(s) as reportable results is already a requirement for performing labs. Therefore, no further follow-up is required on your part. However, it is Evident’s recommendation that you keep a copy of the agency’s expectations for reporting (screenshot, specifications, email notification) in your Meaningful Use audit folder. Additionally, please keep in mind that any tests performed in-house that include reportable results must be submitted by your facility; the reference lab is only responsible for reporting the reportable results for tests they perform.