How should I share an electrocardiogram (ECG)?

Proper Methods for Sharing ECG Data

ECGs should be shared electronically through secure healthcare platforms that comply with medical data protection standards, ensuring proper interpretation by qualified physicians within 10 minutes of acquisition for emergency cases.

Recommended Methods for ECG Sharing

Secure Electronic Transmission

• Use healthcare-specific telemedicine platforms designed for ECG file management (acquisition, storage, transmission) 1
• Ensure the ECG is properly acquired as a standard 12-lead recording with appropriate patient identification 2
• Maintain compliance with HIPAA regulations when sharing electronically, similar to how providers routinely share health data with other doctors 3

Required Components When Sharing

• Include complete 12-lead ECG recording, not just rhythm strips 4
• Provide patient identification and demographic information
• Include acquisition date and time
• Attach relevant clinical information that may affect interpretation
• Include previous ECGs for comparison when available 2

Timing Considerations

• For suspected acute coronary syndrome: ECG should be obtained and interpreted within 10 minutes of patient arrival 2
• For office-based evaluations: ECG should be interpreted immediately 2
• Serial ECGs (15-30 minute intervals) should be included when clinically indicated 2

Interpretation Requirements

• All ECGs must be interpreted by a qualified physician, not solely by computer algorithms 4
• Computer interpretations should always be verified by a qualified physician 4
• The interpreting physician should integrate clinical data with ECG findings 4
• Comparison with previous ECGs is essential when available 2

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Relying solely on computer-generated interpretations without physician verification 4
• Sharing incomplete ECG data (e.g., single leads or rhythm strips only) when full 12-lead ECGs are needed 4
• Failing to include relevant clinical information that may affect interpretation 4
• Delaying ECG acquisition beyond 10 minutes in patients with suspected acute cardiac conditions 2
• Neglecting to obtain serial ECGs when symptoms persist or change 2

Special Considerations

• For posterior myocardial infarction suspicion, supplemental leads (V7-V9) should be included 2
• For patients with implanted devices or complex arrhythmias, longer rhythm strips may be necessary
• When sharing with patients or patient-selected apps, the same HIPAA-compliant processes used for provider-to-provider sharing should be followed 3

ECG sharing is a critical component of cardiovascular care that directly impacts patient morbidity and mortality. Proper acquisition, secure transmission, and qualified interpretation are essential elements that should never be compromised.