An Internet Otolaryngology Referral Center: A Preliminary Report

Abstract

Background The aim of this study was to review our early experience with the UPenn Otolaryngology Referral Center Website, ENTConsult.org. Methods ENTConsult.org is an interactive website that allows a referring physician to select a University of Pennsylvania Health System otolaryngologist and share clinical information, including uploaded pictures, radiographs, and other images via the Internet. Traditional methods of long-distance consultation involve mailing clinical information, which often is slow and unwieldy, thus discouraging consultation. ENTConsult.org seeks to take advantage of Internet functionality to facilitate efficient and timely consultation regardless of any of the participants’ locations. Results In this report we reviewed our initial experience with ENTConsult.org, including an overview of the website functionality and a detailed review of critical logistical considerations. Conclusion The UPenn Otolaryngology Referral Center Website ENTConsult.org offers considerable promise as an avenue for long-distance referral and consultation.