In today’s world where patients want to feel empowered and require convenience, the Patient Portal EMR Software comes in handy. Practices of all sizes have been quick to implement patient portals because they stimulate patient engagement and bring other benefits of improved communication, streamlined administrative workflows, meeting meaningful use requirements, and a reduction in medical errors.
What is a Patient Portal EMR Software?
A secure online platform or application that allows patients to access their personal health information and engage with healthcare practitioners and healthcare systems electronically is known as patient portal software. Healthcare companies, such as hospitals, clinics, and medical practices, generally provide these portals to promote patient participation, communication, and convenience.
Key Functionalities Offered by the Patient Portal Platform
Here are some of the most frequent features and functionalities found in patient portal software that can help patients manage their health effectively and even boost health outcomes:
- Just by logging in to the patient portal application patients can have seamless access to all their medical records including, test reports, lab results, and visit summaries.
- The appointment scheduling feature of the software allows patients to book online without the hassle of making phone calls to the clinic.
- Robust communication tools that are HIPAA-compliant facilitate secure contact with the healthcare provider.
- Through the Patient Portal EHR Software, patients can easily request prescription refills.
- Online and simple bill payment facility is available via the portal.
The Significance of Patient Portal Software
Patient portals are crucial in today’s healthcare industry for various reasons:
- Enhanced patient engagement since patients can participate in their healthcare.
- Convenient access to health information via smartphones.
- Supports streamlined patient-provider communication as a result establishes strong bonds.
- Some patient portal platforms allow patients to monitor chronic conditions and even record symptoms.
- Helps with prescription management.
- Patient portals have become essential for telehealth services in the aftermath of the COVID-19 outbreak. Patients can plan virtual appointments, discuss information with clinicians virtually, and receive care without having to leave their homes.
Famous Patient Portal Vendors in the USA
Healthcare organizations in the US frequently employ patient portal software from several well-known providers such as:
- MyChart by Epic EMR Software
- Cerner HealtheLife
- athenahealth Patient Portal
- FollowMyHealth by Allscripts EMR Software
Strategies to Encourage Patient Portal EMR Software Usage
It wouldn’t make sense to implement a patient portal software if patients are not encouraged to use the platform to improve engagement and satisfaction scores.
Practices can motivate patients to use the platform by registering them in the clinic. Staff members can help patients navigate the application so there are fewer inhibitions.
Healthcare providers should take the front seat to educate patients about the benefits of using patient portal software. This way patient usage may increase as per their provider’s advice.
Hospitals should make use of various channels such as social media, their website, and advertising in the clinic to publicize the portal. In the end do ask patients for feedback, so that practices know what patients like and dislike about the software and optimize it accordingly.
Final Takeaway
Patient Portal EMR Software solutions are essential technologies in contemporary healthcare that promote patient participation, communication, administrative efficiency, and treatment outcomes. They are a crucial part of healthcare delivery today because they are in line with the focus placed on convenience, accessibility, and patient-centered care in the digital age.
