UPMC Infonet 5: Unlocking the Hidden Potential for Central PA Doctors - A How-To Guide

Many doctors in Central Pennsylvania rely on UPMC Infonet 5 daily, but often only scratch the surface of its capabilities. This guide unlocks five features that can significantly improve your workflow, patient care, and overall experience with the portal. We’ll cover prerequisites, tools (if needed), step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting, and a summary to ensure you master these valuable functionalities.

Prerequisites:

  • Active UPMC Infonet 5 Account: You must have a valid and active UPMC Infonet 5 account. If you're unsure about your login credentials, contact UPMC IT Support immediately.

  • Familiarity with Basic Computer Operations: This guide assumes a basic understanding of navigating a web browser, using a mouse, and typing.

  • Reliable Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is crucial for accessing and effectively using UPMC Infonet 5.

  • (Optional) Mobile Device with UPMC Central PA Apps: Some features may have companion apps available for mobile devices (iOS and Android). While not strictly necessary, they can enhance accessibility and convenience. Check the UPMC Central PA app store for available options.

    • Tools (If Needed):

  • Web Browser: A modern web browser such as Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge. Ensure your browser is updated to the latest version for optimal performance.

  • (Optional) Mobile Device: For accessing companion apps (if available and desired).

    • Five Features Doctors Wish You Knew About (Central PA Portal):

    1. Advanced Filtering and Customization of Patient Lists:

    Beyond the basic search, Infonet 5 allows for granular filtering to manage large patient populations efficiently.

    Steps:

    1. Log in to UPMC Infonet 5: Open your web browser and navigate to the UPMC Infonet 5 portal for Central PA (the exact URL may vary; contact UPMC IT if unsure). Enter your username and password.
    2. Access the Patient List: Navigate to the section that displays your patient list (usually labeled "My Patients," "Patient Encounter List," or similar).
    3. Locate the Filter Options: Look for a "Filter," "Advanced Search," or "Customize" button/link near the patient list.
    4. Apply Filters:
    * Diagnosis Codes (ICD-10): Filter patients based on specific diagnoses. Type in the ICD-10 code or keywords to search for relevant codes.
    * Medications: Filter patients based on medications they are currently prescribed. Start typing the medication name to see suggestions.
    * Appointment Status: Filter patients based on their upcoming or past appointment status (e.g., "Scheduled," "Cancelled," "No Show").
    * Age Range: Filter patients by age range for age-specific screenings or follow-ups.
    * Insurance Provider: Filter patients based on their insurance provider.
    * Location/Practice Site: Filter patients based on the specific practice site or location they are associated with.
    5. Save Custom Filters (Optional): If you frequently use a specific set of filters, look for an option to "Save Filter," "Save Search," or similar. This allows you to quickly apply the same filters in the future without re-entering the criteria. Name your saved filter descriptively.
    6. Apply and View Results: Click the "Apply," "Search," or "Filter" button to display the results based on your selected filters.

    Troubleshooting:

  • No Results: Double-check your filter criteria for accuracy. Ensure you are using the correct ICD-10 codes or medication names.

  • Slow Performance: Applying too many filters simultaneously can slow down the system. Try applying filters one at a time to identify the bottleneck.

  • Filter Option Not Available: Some features may be restricted based on your user role or permissions. Contact UPMC IT Support if you believe you should have access to a specific filter option.

    • 2. Utilizing the Clinical Decision Support (CDS) Tools:

    Infonet 5 integrates with CDS tools to provide real-time guidance and alerts during patient encounters.

    Steps:

    1. Open Patient Chart: Select the patient whose chart you want to access.
    2. Navigate to Relevant Section: Depending on the CDS tool you want to use, navigate to the corresponding section of the patient chart (e.g., "Medications," "Orders," "Assessments").
    3. Trigger CDS Alerts: Certain actions (e.g., prescribing a medication, ordering a lab test) may trigger CDS alerts. Pay attention to any pop-up windows, messages, or icons that appear.
    4. Review and Act on Alerts: Carefully review the information provided in the CDS alert. These alerts may offer suggestions for alternative medications, potential drug interactions, or recommended screenings.
    5. Document Your Actions: Always document the rationale for your decisions, even if you choose to override a CDS alert. This ensures transparency and accountability.

    Troubleshooting:

  • No Alerts Appearing: Ensure the CDS tools are enabled in your user settings. Contact UPMC IT Support if you are unsure how to enable them.

  • Irrelevant Alerts: While CDS tools are helpful, they can sometimes generate irrelevant alerts. Use your clinical judgment to determine whether an alert is truly relevant to the patient's situation.

  • Difficulty Understanding Alerts: If you are unsure about the meaning of a CDS alert, consult with a colleague or contact UPMC Clinical Informatics for assistance.

    • 3. Secure Messaging and Collaboration with Other Providers:

    Infonet 5 facilitates secure communication between healthcare providers within the UPMC network.

    Steps:

    1. Access Secure Messaging: Look for a "Messages," "InBasket," or "Communication Center" icon or link within the Infonet 5 portal.
    2. Compose a New Message: Click on "New Message," "Compose," or similar.
    3. Select Recipient(s): Search for the recipient by name, specialty, or department.
    4. Enter Subject and Message: Provide a clear and concise subject line and type your message in the body of the email.
    5. Attach Relevant Documents (If Needed): You can typically attach documents such as lab results, imaging reports, or consultation notes to your message.
    6. Send Message: Click the "Send" button.

    Troubleshooting:

  • Recipient Not Found: Ensure you are spelling the recipient's name correctly. If you are still unable to find the recipient, contact UPMC IT Support to verify their Infonet 5 account status.

  • Message Not Sending: Check your internet connection and try again. If the problem persists, contact UPMC IT Support.

  • Difficulty Attaching Files: Ensure the file size is within the allowed limit. If the file is too large, try compressing it or sending it in multiple messages.

    • 4. Accessing and Utilizing Patient Education Materials:

    Infonet 5 provides access to a library of patient education materials that you can easily share with your patients.

    Steps:

    1. Open Patient Chart: Select the patient whose chart you want to access.
    2. Navigate to Patient Education Section: Look for a "Patient Education," "Resources," or "Education Materials" tab or section within the patient chart.
    3. Search for Relevant Materials: Use keywords, diagnosis codes, or medication names to search for relevant patient education materials.
    4. Preview Materials: Before sharing, preview the materials to ensure they are appropriate for the patient's needs and reading level.
    5. Share Materials: You can typically share materials by printing them, emailing them directly to the patient (if the patient has a MyUPMC account), or providing a link to the materials on the UPMC website.

    Troubleshooting:

  • No Materials Found: Try using different keywords or search terms.

  • Difficulty Printing Materials: Ensure your printer is properly configured and connected.

  • Materials Not Available in Patient's Language: Check for materials in other languages. If none are available, consider using a translation service.

    • 5. Using the "Quick Orders" Feature for Common Orders:

    This feature allows you to create pre-set order sets for frequently used labs, medications, or procedures.

    Steps:

    1. Access the Orders Section: Navigate to the "Orders" or "Order Entry" section of the patient chart.
    2. Locate the "Quick Orders" Feature: Look for a "Quick Orders," "Order Sets," or "Favorite Orders" option.
    3. Create a New Quick Order (If Needed): If you don't already have a Quick Order for the desired combination, select "Create New," "Add Order Set," or similar.
    4. Name the Quick Order: Give the Quick Order a descriptive name (e.g., "Pneumonia Workup," "Standard Diabetes Meds").
    5. Add Orders to the Set: Search for and add the desired labs, medications, or procedures to the Quick Order set.
    6. Save the Quick Order: Click "Save" or "OK" to save your newly created Quick Order.
    7. Use the Quick Order: When ordering for a patient, select the "Quick Orders" option, choose the appropriate set, and all the pre-defined orders will be added to the order entry screen.

    Troubleshooting:

  • Quick Order Not Saving: Ensure you have provided a name for the Quick Order.

  • Orders Not Appearing in the Set: Double-check that you have added the desired orders to the Quick Order set.

  • Quick Order Not Available: Some institutions or departments may have pre-defined Quick Orders that are not customizable.

Summary:

Mastering these five Infonet 5 features – advanced filtering, CDS tools, secure messaging, patient education materials, and quick orders – can significantly improve your efficiency and enhance patient care. By following these step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting tips, you can unlock the full potential of UPMC Infonet 5 and streamline your daily workflow within the Central PA portal. Remember to contact UPMC IT Support or Clinical Informatics for further assistance if needed.