Credit: Medscape
It makes sense that the folks in charge of our health should get the most helpful stuff, right?
It can be frustrating to set up appointments and check in on test results for patients. The same can also be said for doctors who have to try to keep track of all of their patients and be up to speed on their medical records. Technology is trying to find ways to help both parties develop a much stronger partnership. Let’s look at a few that are showing their value.
Patient Portals
Patient portals are an excellent way to keep people from having to make appointments on a consistent basis to come in to see a doctor. However, it can be frustrating for physicians (and even more for pediatricians) who may have to constantly exchange messages back and forth with patients. Medical groups should set up standards and procedures for communication expectations.
Automated Appointment Reminder Systems
Setting up automated appointment reminders can save workers at a physician’s office a lot of time and allow them to focus their efforts on the patients who are in the office. It is also proving handy to have patients complete their intake information at home. This can be done on their home computer, tablet, or mobile device before entering their appointment. This can alert physicians to any major concerns that could be coming their way.
This system can also send information to the patients to educate them about their condition. Patients can come into the office with any questions they may have based on the materials that were provided.
Telehealth
Virtual health visits are becoming more and more popular these days. With the consent of a parent, children can be evaluated by pediatricians while being allowed to be a part of the video or phone call. Through this technology, pediatricians can listen to patients’ hearts and lungs, use an otoscope to create real-time video of their eardrum, evaluate eyes, nose, throat, and skin through a high-resolution camera, and evaluate common conditions such as rashes, sore throats, and the common cold. This technology is being used in school districts that are financially strapped in healthcare.
These are just three of the ways that the healthcare industry is taking the necessary steps to provide solid healthcare to as many people as they can. Technology will continue to improve upon these methods to make our healthcare as transparent as possible.
