(a) A center must adopt and enforce a written policy
describing protocols and procedures the center must follow when receiving
physician orders. A center's written policy must comply with this
section. The center's written policy must ensure the center's compliance
with THSC Chapter 248A, applicable rules in this chapter, and applicable
state and federal regulations relating to receiving physician orders.
If there is a conflict between this chapter and other applicable state
and federal laws and regulations, a center must comply with the more
stringent requirement.
(b) A center's written policy describing protocols
and procedures for receiving physician orders must address:
(1) receipt of a physician order before providing
basic services;
(2) the licensed staff authorized to accept physician
verbal orders;
(3) the recording and signing of verbal physician orders
by licensed staff;
(4) the time frame for a physician to sign and date
verbal orders; and
(5) whether the center accepts an electronically signed
physician order or a physician order submitted via a facsimile machine.
(c) A center may accept signed facsimile copies of
physician orders. A center must be able to obtain an original signature
to verify a signature on a facsimile copy. If signed physician orders
are accepted by this method, the written policy must describe:
(1) safeguards to ensure that transmitted information
is sent to the appropriate individual; and
(2) the procedure to be followed in the case of misdirected
transmission.
(d) A center may accept electronically signed physician
orders submitted electronically. If signed physician orders are accepted
by this method, the written policy must describe the center's method
for verifying that the system and software product the physician uses
provides protection against:
(1) modification of the physician order, including
the physician's signature and date of signature; and
(2) the unauthorized use of the physician's electronic
signature.
|
Source Note: The provisions of this §550.702 adopted to be effective September 1, 2014, 39 TexReg 6569; transferred effective May 1, 2019, as published in the Texas Register April 12, 2019, 44 TexReg 1875 |