Requirements for information communication and reporting v5

The document outlines a framework for the communication of pathology information within the request-test-report cycle. It sets minimum standards to ensure the integrity of patient information during the transfer of information with external parties. To manage potential risks, laboratories must be able to ensure the confidentiality, integrity (including authenticity) and availability (collectively known as information security) of messages received and sent to the authorised recipient. This includes recording, storing and, where required, archiving messages and the tracking of access and transmission of these messages.

Main sections:

- Governance

- Security of electronic communications

- Patient and provider identification

- Conformance with electronic messaging standards

- Communications audit trail

- Request and report format requirements