Full Text

Transfer of Care
Professional Standards
(27 May, 2016)

Preamble

In the complex world of medicine, it is imperative that a single physician be identified at all times as the most responsible physician (MRP) for any patient. . .

. . . A transfer of care occurs whenever there is a change in the most responsible physician for a particular patient.  This can take place with movement of patients between health care locations, providers or different levels of care within the same location as their conditions and care needs change.

Physicians have the primary responsibility to ensure effective transfers of care.  Physicians are encouraged to be involved in the design of transitions within the health care system to ensure coordination and continuity of care for the benefit of their patients.

This document applies whenever there is a change in the MRP of the patient. . .

Professional Standards

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2.  When transferring a patient, the MRP must ensure:

a)  the accepting physician has the necessary clinical information to assume care, including asummary of active medical problems and the treatment plan for the patient at the time oftransfer; and

b)  the accepting physician, who will become the MRP upon transfer, is clearly identified in thepatient’s medical record and has agreed to accept the transfer of care.

3.  In either situation, when discharging or transferring a patient:

a)  professional judgement is required to determine the extent and timeliness of information provided to the accepting physician, and the balance between verbal and written communications;

b)  the physician must inform the patient that a transfer of care is to take place and identify who is to become the most responsible physician for that patient.

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