The use of technology affected many practices in the healthcare industry. As technological capabilities continue to advance, healthcare professionals like you can now offer better healthcare to your patients. While the increased reliance on innovation caused impersonal patient-doctor interactions and security concerns on sensitive data, here are some ways technology transforms healthcare:
-
Streamlined appointments
Appointments sometimes seem repetitive and time-consuming. The process usually involves your patients describing their ailment to a nurse and then repeating the same information to the doctor. So you can streamline your appointment process using handheld devices wirelessly connected to the medical charts.
For instance, vital signs and other important information is inputted and automatically downloaded onto the devices, giving access to all of the information necessary to complete the appointment. This way, you can save at least several minutes with each patient and improve your productivity.
-
Effective communication with patients
Lack of communication between patients and doctors is a major concern, especially in between checkups. Many patients are forced to book an appointment just to raise minor concerns, failing to address the root cause of the medical issue. If this sounds like a common issue in your facility, address it by utilizing email or messaging. Create an email system that is easily accessible to your patients and respond to their queries within 24 hours.
Alternatively, you can use a messaging system or chatbot through your website so you can answer questions as quickly as possible.
-
Easy access to medical records
Answering questions about patients’ medical histories is time-consuming. Fortunately, you can boost your efficiency by simply letting them log into your computer system and access the information they need. This system lets them look at their medical history, past vital sign measurements, and appointment schedules.
-
Searchable databases
One of the most common concerns in healthcare is the slow transmission of important information among healthcare professionals. This issue can easily be resolved using large-scale databases containing research, trials, and possible solutions for emerging or unusual ailments.
These databases are strictly for medical professionals. They are helpful, especially when you come across a patient with unusual symptoms. You have the resources to determine the right treatment confidently, and your patients can get their much-needed healthcare without delays.
-
Touchscreen check-in procedures
Busy seasons like winter can cause long lines, which can be especially frustrating for sick patients. Your medical facility can implement touchscreen check-in procedures to save time and let multiple patients check-in at the doctor’s office at the same time. To do this, you can place at least two to three tablets in the waiting room, and then they can easily sign-in on the screen.
-
Easy-to-understand medical bills
Medical billing can confuse patients since they contain multiple codes and insurance companies listed on one bill alone. To ensure your medical bills are easy to understand, your medical facility can hide coding on these invoices when they are sent out to patients.
With easy-to-read medical bills, everyone is more likely to pay bills on time. You can also free up your time since you will have fewer phone calls asking to clarify their invoices.
Conclusion
Technology is important in healthcare as it introduces new ways to treat patients, and it will continue to improve the industry with further developments over time. By taking advantage of the power of technology, your medical facility can save more lives, offer better care, and improve your patients’ quality of life.
Become a better healthcare professional by staying up-to-date with the most recent healthcare news. Read our other articles to learn more about the latest in the industry!
