Most throughput problems don't start in production; they start at intake.

Common sources we see: missing required fields, unclear status ownership, and exceptions handled differently depending on who is working the order.

Try this approach this month: 

• Identify your top 2 sources of re-entry (fax, email, portal, manual entry), then pick one to streamline first.
• Define what a “complete order” means, document required fields and the top missing items your team sees.
• Use one consistent exception path, so incomplete orders do not bounce between people.

 In Rx-Universe, the goal is to keep intake and statuses consistent so CSRs and production are working from the same view, and exceptions get resolved quickly instead of turning into rework later. 

Quick checklist, cleaner intake in 5 steps:

• List your top 3 order sources and mark which ones require manual re-entry.
• Define the required fields for a “complete” order, keep it to one page.
• Set a single owner for intake exceptions, with a clear escalation rule.
• Standardize status language your CSRs and production both use.
• Track one metric weekly, number of orders needing clarification or rework.

 Need help tightening intake for your lab?

Check out the Rx-Universe Wiki for a fresher: 

 If you want help reducing manual touches at order entry tailored to your lab, click below and share: 

• Your primary order sources (VisionWeb, fax, email, portal, manual entry)

• One example order that required re-entry or clarification

• What information was missing or inconsistent

• Where the order got stuck (intake, on hold, CSR review, production queue)