FAQ
QI Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about running a no-login, no-PHI QI project using GreenlightPA.
What counts as “medication received”?
The patient has the first fill in-hand (e.g., specialty pharmacy delivery) or the first administered dose is documented. Record the date in
medication_received_date and how you confirmed it in received_source.What if I never learn the PA decision date?
Use
pa_outcome = unknown and leave pa_outcome_date blank. You can still track medication_received if you learn it later.What if the PA was approved but the patient still didn’t get the medication?
Set
pa_outcome = approved, and medication_received = no (or unknown if not sure). This is a key access gap your QI project can highlight.What if there are multiple denials or multiple appeals?
In v1, record the first PA decision in
pa_outcome. If an appeal occurs, record the final appeal result in appeal_outcome. Use notes_nonphi for extra detail.What if the patient switches insurers mid-process?
Use the insurer at the time the PA was submitted. Note changes in
notes_nonphi if relevant.Can medical students do this project?
Yes. This is a great systems-based QI project. Students can assist with data tracking and workflow improvement while clinicians supervise clinical decisions.
Do I need statistics or a p-value?
Not required for QI. Focus on descriptive comparisons, medians, and clear process/outcome measures (e.g., % receiving medication within 30 days).
Can I submit my results to GreenlightPA?
Yes, optionally. Only submit files that contain no PHI. If you share, you can indicate whether you permit use of de-identified aggregate examples in future educational materials.
No PHI Reminder
Please do not enter PHI into the CSV. Use local_patient_key as a private code you can map locally.