CeCN’s Specialty eConsult Capability Now Available to ConnectiCare’s Primary Care Providers

MIDDLETOWN, Conn., August 28, 2018: Community eConsult Network (CeCN) is pleased to be partnering with ConnectiCare, giving the insurer’s in-network commercial and Medicare Advantage primary care providers access to CeCN’s national network of board-certified specialists in a wide range of disciplines.

The HIPAA-compliant CeCN platform, currently in use by providers in 14 states, allows PCPs to submit their questions or concerns through secure electronic messaging to a specialist, along with other relevant information such as chart notes, lab and imaging results.  The specialist then reviews and responds with advice regarding diagnosis, treatment, and management for the patient. An eConsult may result in a request to send the patient to see a specialist, but in many cases the eConsult provides the PCP with the necessary recommendation to manage the patient in the primary care setting with no need for a face-to-face consult. Response time for eConsults is within two business days of the eConsult request.

“Across Connecticut and the US, insurance providers are realizing that eConsults improve patient care,” said Daren Anderson, MD, Member, CeCN Board of Directors and Director, Weitzman Institute.  “This simple technology makes it easier for primary care doctors and specialists to communicate and discuss cases in order to provide their patients with the care they need in the most efficient and effective way possible. We are excited to partner with ConnectiCare to bring this important new technology to practices across Connecticut.”

A study by the Weitzman Institute demonstrated that eConsults are safe and effective, also reducing emergency room utilization, likely due to reduced time to provide appropriate treatment. More than 25 specialties are currently available through CeCN, including: Cardiology, Dermatology, Gastroenterology, Orthopedics and Pain Management.