Patient Engagement: Ways to Stay Connected in Healthcare

The unique relationship between doctor and patient is one of the many reasons physicians pursue medicine. Health care professionals associate with their patients in ways that go beyond basic diagnosis and treatment. This long-lasting relationship is usually a factor in overall patient satisfaction.

It’s not surprising, therefore, that patients expect more communication with their health care providers and look to technology to improve it. People today are likely to search for doctors and schedule appointments online; many people also use health care apps to manage their symptoms and conditions. Research shows that patients want more engagement, which includes frequent communication with their doctors; better support from providers; more information about their health; and techniques to track their symptoms and track any existing conditions.

Luckily, innovations in technology have made it easier for patients to achieve all of these goals. The following resource, by Specialdocs, describes some of them. For example, a program or app that generates automated texts or emails allows health care providers to update patients with relevant information regarding screenings or health conditions. While these messages may not be personalized, they can create a sense of engagement or trigger people to contact their doctors.

Telemedicine is another way doctors can improve their patient relationships and is a popular option in today’s climate. A virtual appointment is often more convenient for patients, making it so they don’t have to leave home or work to receive care.

These are just some of technological advances that can help increase engagement between patients and their providers, as well as help doctors operate more efficiently. This allows more time to accomplish the real business of medicine: connecting with patients to guide them in leading healthier lives. Those who take advantage of digital solutions are also empowered to take control over their health, which could result in better outcomes.