Digital literacy and the ubiquity of smartphones has changed the way people interact with the healthcare system. Medical practices need to be able to provide patients with access to their medical records, book appointments online, and give them the ability to contact the practice easily.
There are a number of information technology (IT) services that can help medical practices keep up with the demands of digital-savvy patients. Here are 8 IT services every medical practice needs:
1. A secure patient portal
A secure patient portal gives patients 24/7 access to their medical records. They can view test results, upcoming appointments, and pay their bills – all from the comfort of their own homes. A portal also allows patients to communicate directly with their care providers, which can help improve communication and coordination of care.
2. Online appointment scheduling
Online appointment scheduling allows patients to book appointments at their convenience, without having to call the practice during business hours. This can save both patients and staff a lot of time and frustration.
3. A robust EHR system
A robust electronic health record (EHR) system is essential for keeping track of patient medical records, prescriptions, and test results. EHR systems can also help practices meet Meaningful Use requirements and receive incentive payments from the government.
4. Telemedicine capabilities
Telemedicine allows patients to consult with their doctors via video conferencing or telephone, which can save time and improve access to care. This is especially important for patients who live in rural areas or who have difficulty leaving their homes.
5. A HIPAA compliance program
A HIPAA compliance program helps medical practices ensure that they are complying with all of the requirements of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. This includes ensuring that patient data is protected from unauthorized access and that only authorized individuals have access to it.
6. A comprehensive cybersecurity plan
With the increase in cyberattacks on healthcare organizations, it’s more important than ever for medical practices to have a comprehensive cybersecurity plan in place. This should include measures such as encrypting patient data, using strong passwords, and backing up data regularly.
7. A disaster recovery plan
A disaster recovery plan is essential for any organization, but it’s especially important for medical practices. This type of plan outlines how the practice will continue to operate in the event of a major disruption, such as a power outage or natural disaster.
8. A reliable IT support partner
A reliable IT support partner can help a medical practice with all of its IT needs, from setting up a secure patient portal to implementing a robust EHR system. IT support can also help practices troubleshoot technical problems and keep their systems running smoothly.
Medical practices need to be able to provide patients with the same level of convenience and customer service that they’ve come to expect from other businesses. By investing in the right IT services, practices can improve patient satisfaction, save time and money, and make the transition to digital health care.