Mayo Clinic Care Network Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mayo Clinic Care Network?
The
Mayo Clinic Care Network is a unique collaboration that connects physicians on the medical staff
at Methodist Health System with Mayo Clinic specialists and Mayo Clinic
resources. Health care providers at Methodist will use digital technology
to access the latest Mayo Clinic knowledge and expertise.
What does this mean for me as a patient?
As part of Mayo Clinic Care Network, your healthcare providers at Methodist
can consult with specialists at Mayo Clinic through several unique electronic
tools. These tools offer a connection to Mayo Clinic that allows your
providers to get input on patient care when they believe it would be helpful.
What kind of electronic tools does the network use?
Mayo Clinic Care Network members have several electronic tools they can use to collaborate with Mayo Clinic:
- AskMayoExpert is an online resource developed by Mayo Clinic physicians to offer point-of-care information on disease management, care guidelines, treatment recommendations and reference materials for a wide variety of medical conditions.
- eConsults allow your health care provider to connect directly with a Mayo Clinic specialist to get input on complex care.
- eTumor Boards allow physicians to present and discuss management of complex cancer cases with a Mayo Clinic multidisciplinary panel.
Are my medical records safe when you use these tools?
Yes. Patient privacy is a priority, and we have safeguards in place to
protect your health information. Anything shared with Mayo Clinic related
to patient care is sent through a secure electronic connection and remains
confidential.
Why did Mayo Clinic create the Mayo Clinic Care Network?
Collaborating with other medical providers to provide the best possible
care for patients has always been part of Mayo Clinic’s culture.
The Mayo Clinic Care Network is intended to help Mayo and community care
organizations work closer together — in new ways — to enhance
the lives of patients.
Why did Mayo Clinic choose Methodist for participation in the Mayo Clinic
Care Network?
Methodist was selected to join the Mayo Clinic Care Network because Methodist
shares a common philosophy and commitment to improve the delivery of health
care through high-quality, data-driven, evidence-based medical care and
treatment. In addition, Methodist passed Mayo Clinic’s rigorous
review process based on quality, service and operational criteria.
Why is Methodist collaborating with Mayo Clinic?
Methodist has made tremendous progress in our approach to care based on
the latest medical knowledge and best practices from leaders in health
care. The collaboration will assist us as we continually seek out the
latest research and treatment recommendations from the experts at Mayo Clinic.
Does this mean that Methodist could be purchased by Mayo Clinic?
This agreement is not an acquisition or merger. Mayo Clinic Care Network members like Methodist remain independent, community-owned healthcare providers.
Does Mayo Clinic own members of the Mayo Clinic Care Network?
No. Members of Mayo Clinic Care Network are not part of Mayo Clinic. They remain independent and locally owned and controlled. The purpose of the network is to connect members with Mayo Clinic so that they can work together to provide the best possible care when and where patients need it.
Why is Methodist making all of these announcements lately?
Methodist recognizes that if we are to achieve our vision of being a recognized leader in quality and patient experience, we have a responsibility to take the lead in fundamentally transforming healthcare in North Texas. In support of this, Methodist is committed to seeking new ways to:
- Partner with quality care providers to create greater alignment around improved quality and patient experience
- Jointly work with providers to develop clinical guidelines to ensure the highest quality of care for patients who need to be transferred to different levels of care
- Ensure that care is always delivered in the best quality and most cost-advantageous clinical setting as close to the patient’s home as possible
Will this agreement mean patients will automatically be referred to Mayo Clinic?
No, there is no obligation for referrals to Mayo Clinic. The primary goal
of Methodist and Mayo Clinic through the Mayo Clinic Care Network is to
provide a mechanism for those who provide care at Methodist to gain access
for their patients to the benefits of Mayo Clinic expertise while continuing
to deliver care as close to the patient’s home as possible, and
ensuring patients travel outside the region for care only when necessary.
Will I see a Mayo Clinic doctor?
Mayo Clinic doctors do not schedule appointments with patients through
the Mayo Clinic Care Network. The connection is between the healthcare
providers at Methodist and the specialists at Mayo Clinic. As they work
together, you’ll benefit from access to the latest medical expertise
close to home.
What does it cost me if my doctor works with Mayo Clinic on my care?
There is no cost to you when your healthcare provider uses the Mayo Clinic
Care Network resources.
Can I request an eConsult with Mayo Clinic?
Your health care providers use eConsults to get input from Mayo Clinic
specialists when they believe it would be helpful. If you have questions
about your care, talk with your healthcare provider.