Apr 23, 2024
In today's fast-paced digital era, the healthcare industry is constantly evolving to meet the needs of both patients and providers. New technology advancements have transformed how healthcare professionals interact with patients.
Why is patient communication tricky?
Communicating with patients can be delicate for care providers due to strict regulations imposed by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). While HIPAA is crucial for safeguarding patient privacy and maintaining the confidentiality of medical information, it can hinder the flow of communication in certain situations.
Care providers can be limited to phone calls or in-person visits as secure methods of communication with their patients. However, these options can be time-consuming or inaccessible for some patients. HIPAA-compliant messaging apps offer a convenient avenue to connect.
What are the benefits of using a messaging app to communicate with patients?
For long-time providers in the industry, transitioning to a tech-savvy platform can often feel like an intimidating project. In this blog, we'll explore the advantages of using a secure messaging app over traditional methods to communicate with patients.
1. Accessibility and convenience
According to a research study conducted by the National Library of Medicine, distance was identified as the primary obstacle by patients, providers, and staff when it comes to accessing healthcare. As a result, many individuals face significant challenges in physically reaching a doctor's office.
Instant messaging apps eliminate the need for in-person visits or phone calls, allowing patients to communicate with their healthcare providers at their convenience. Patients can send messages to their providers from anywhere, anytime, making it especially beneficial for those with mobility issues, busy schedules, or living in remote areas.
2. Real-time communication
Messaging apps enable quick and efficient exchanges between providers and patients. Patients don't need to wait until their next office visit to ask questions, seek clarifications, and receive timely responses: improving the overall patient experience.
Moreover, in urgent situations, providers can promptly reach out to their patients or address their concerns through messaging, potentially preventing unnecessary visits to the emergency room.
3. Improved patient engagement
In most cases, messaging apps offer a user-friendly and familiar interface similar to regular texting. They provide a convenient and secure platform for sharing photos, videos, and documents exclusively within the app.
These apps empower patients to actively engage in their healthcare, promoting a sense of ownership and involvement. Patients can effortlessly communicate their symptoms, concerns, and progress to their providers, fostering a collaborative relationship that prioritizes shared decision-making.
4. Continuity of care
Care shouldn't be limited to the time spent in the doctor's office. Messaging apps serve as a valuable tool in bridging the gap between appointments, enabling patients to connect with their providers for follow-up questions or updates on their conditions.
By investing in messaging apps, providers can efficiently deliver test results, medication reminders, or post-operative instructions, ensuring a seamless flow of care. This aspect is crucial for enhancing patient satisfaction and overall quality of care.
Read this article to discover how continuity of care impacts patient outcomes.
How to communicate with patients using Celo:
Celo's External Chat feature revolutionizes patient communication by providing a secure and efficient platform for external messaging. Healthcare professionals can seamlessly connect with patients, caregivers, and other stakeholders outside their organization while prioritizing privacy and security.
With Celo, you can engage in real-time communication, allowing for timely updates, clarification of doubts, and coordination of care plans. Your patient doesn't need to download an app to communicate with their provider.
Create a new chat within the Celo app and send it to an external contact. They will receive a secure link via SMS, which takes them directly to a discussion with your team. Both users can engage in two-way conversations in an entirely HIPAA-compliant environment.
How do I implement a messaging app for my organization?
The setup process with Celo is simple and doesn't require any training. Your entire organization can start using the app within minutes!
To experience Celo firsthand, book a demo with one of our product experts: