Will the handshake be a thing of the past? Will masks become the norm in flu season? Will working from home still prevail even after the workplace is reopened? COVID-19 has forced some sudden behavior changes, challenging existing cultural norms, but as the pandemic subsides, how many of these adaptations will survive?
For healthcare executives, returning to on-site medical visits can cause similar problems. Healthcare consumers have expressed their desire for more convenience and control, and the pandemic has accelerated the use of digital solutions, from patient access to telemedicine. The ability to make appointments, fill out pre-registration forms and make online payments is the new benchmark.
As the number of patients begins to increase, hospitals and doctors’ groups should not abandon digitalization, especially in Patient intake, This need not involve face-to-face contact. There is now an opportunity to learn and consolidate the digital legacy of the pandemic from the proven methods of the past year.
On-demand: 5 strategies for building a digital patient experience
What is the new normal of patient intake?
- Back to basics with convenience and compassion
Once the crisis model has passed, providers can refocus their efforts on the cornerstones of the best medical services: high-quality care and a convenient and compassionate patient experience. After the uncertainty and out-of-control of the past year, patients need autonomy and choice.Start a smooth patient journey Online pre-registration, Patient portals, virtual waiting rooms and digital scheduling can contribute to this.
Many people will be happy to say goodbye to the piles of paper forms and the long wait in the waiting room. But any digital strategy must also support those with limited access to equipment and broadband or limited digital literacy. Liz Serie, Director of Product Management at Experian Health said:
“The goal is to provide patients with the same special experience and care, no matter when or how they complete their patient intake. Using the same tools that we know patients are used to will help ensure an inclusive approach.”
Digital technology can support Multi-channel approach, For example, using autodialers to make calls when mobile apps are not available, or using patient data to segment individuals based on contact preferences.
- Re-attract hesitant patients
The CDC reported in September 2020 that approximately 40% of adults Care was delayed due to the pandemic.in spite of Recent data It shows that the number of patients who postpone care has decreased, Some experts I am worried that the number of patients will not return to normal until 2022.How the provider Easy recovery care?
Online health portal Help keep people away from facilities during a pandemic-can they now be used for different purposes to remind patients of the examination?
Patients need clear information, understand the protocols to be followed during the patient’s admission, expectations of the virtual waiting room, and information to ensure the safety of the experience.
- Simplify patient visits with accurate data
Unlock the digital front door It has logistical significance during the pandemic. As the number of patients increases, this becomes more important. Providers want to review their agreements to ensure that rapid implementation does not result in costly data errors. Was the correct information collected at the correct time?
Consumers are looking for flexible and accurate appointment time slots Self-scheduling, They hope their financial ducks Quick authorization And coverage check. Obtaining the correct data for the first time can lead to a smoother patient experience, a more efficient staff workflow, and fewer claim rejections.
- Prepare for an uncertain future
Looking to the future, patient acceptance agreements need to be flexible enough to adapt to changing patient needs, especially in the event of a further outbreak of the pandemic. Digital solutions can help suppliers prepare for unexpected situations and transform from a reactive reaction in a crisis to a positive step towards the future.
For many suppliers, Future-oriented patient intake experience It is also an important remedy for financial losses suffered during the pandemic. Regardless of the future, digital solutions based on accurate data, consumer needs, and accessible information can prevent further loss of income by providing patients with reliable ways to obtain and pay for care.
Medicine is based on face-to-face care, but we don’t need to fill out forms face-to-face. Patient reception is an area where the “old way” does not have to return. Find more Learn how your organization can leverage the digital heritage of the pandemic and create a leading patient reception experience.
