Online patient portals can be a valuable resource for patients who are scheduled to undergo outpatient imaging procedures. However, studies show that despite 90 percent of providers offering portal access to patients, less than 33 percent actually use them. It’s clear that while practices have the best intentions, simply implementing a basic online patient portal is not enough to empower patients to actually use them, placing the burden on administrative and call center staff to service them for even the simplest of requests.
When you implement a patient portal designed to increase practice efficiency and patient satisfaction, it’s a win-win for staff and patients alike.
Having an online patient portal at your practice can simplify and enhance a patient’s healthcare journey while also streamlining practice operations.
Here are five advanced benefits of using an online patient portal for managing healthcare information specific to outpatient imaging.
Patient healthcare outcomes heavily rely on speed of diagnosis and care. Online patient portals allow patients to access their test results and diagnostic images immediately, which can be especially beneficial for patients awaiting critical test results. Portals with built-in educational materials also help alleviate anxiety with clear and simplified explanations of results.
Modern online portals can provide patients with a direct line of communication to their imaging providers. After logging in, patients can ask questions, schedule appointments, change appointments, and receive updates on appointments and results without ever having to pick up the phone. They can review instructions on how to prepare for their imaging procedure, including information on fasting and clothing requirements as well as other important details about their imaging procedure, including the type of imaging (such as advanced imaging MRI or CT), and the expected duration of the exam. Patients with access to an advanced portal spend less time in the waiting room by filling out registration forms and uploading insurance and ID cards in advance of their visit. Other important information, like detailed directions to the imaging facility, including maps, parking information, and contact details, are instantly accessible.
Beyond the benefits to patients, online patient portals can help reduce operational costs for imaging centers. The key is having an advanced online patient portal that’s simple to use and seamlessly integrated with your entire practice workflow ecosystem. By giving patients online access to a patient portal, they can schedule appointments, fill in registration forms, and upload their prescriptions and other important documentation from any device. Not only is this more convenient for patients, but it can drastically reduce workloads on scheduling and registration personnel, thus also reducing administrative costs. The portal can also advise patients of their co-payment due, provide a good faith estimate for the cost of their imaging procedure, and offer online payment processing. By allowing patients to easily pay their bill or balances, imaging centers will receive payments faster, minimizing time and efforts on AR.
Online patient portals allow patients to securely share their diagnostic images and test results with their families. Rather than carrying around physical discs or faxed images, the online patient portal holds the highest quality images that can be shared digitally. They also help patients keep track of important documentation and medical records to refer to for follow-up recommendations or future appointments. By implementing an advanced patient portal with these features, patients will feel more informed and in control of their healthcare, leading to better patient outcomes and increased satisfaction with their experience.
While online patient portals are ultimately designed to enhance the patient experience, they enhance the referral experience too. Referrers are looking for imaging centers that offer high-touch service levels with minimal manual involvement. The better the patient experience through patient portals and patient communication strategies, the more likely referring physicians are to send their patients to your practice.
It’s clear that online patient portals can provide patients with a wealth of information and resources to help them navigate their outpatient imaging experience. Beyond benefits to patients like immediate access to diagnostic images and results and improved communication, an enhanced patient portal can also increase the number of referrals, reduce operational costs, and save hours of manual work for administrative staff.
Are you ready to take advantage of these benefits at your practice? Request a demo of the AbbaDox Patient Portal below.