Reminder: Don’t Send Orders through Secure Chat, PerfectServe or Other Text Message Platforms

As a reminder, sending orders through Secure Chat, PerfectServe, text or any other secure messaging app is prohibited per Houston Methodist and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) policy.

HM System Policy PCPS171 states: “The secure texting app should not be used to send, infer, modify or cancel orders. If during the course of electronic communication, an order is discussed, the provider will be required to enter the order directly into CPOD. If the provider is not able to enter the order, a telephone call should be initiated for verbal/telephone order.”

Note: Texting patient information between health care providers is acceptable through a secure, encrypted platform, as long as it doesn’t include patient orders.

For more information about when and how to use Secure Chat, click here.