Enhancing Communication and Care

Enhancing Communication and Care

MyChart pleases both patients and providers.

GHS primary care patients who use MyChart, the free patient portal platform, have 24-hour access to their health history and results, but that is just the tip of the database and automation iceberg. They also can schedule their own appointments for sick visits and can be added to a wait list system that automatically texts them if a cancellation for an earlier appointment occurs. And they can use e-check-in to review forms and take care of copays before they arrive.

Through MyChart, patients can access a database of information on medications, disease processes and exercise regimens for musculoskeletal injuries. Perhaps what makes MyChart most powerful, though, is how it has enhanced communication between provider and patient.

“Patients feel like they are directly connected to the provider,” explained Rebecca Smith, MD, a physician with Keystone Family Medicine. “And they’re very happy with this efficient means of communication.”

“Patients can both type in a question and check for responses at their own convenience, without waiting for the nurse to call back,” noted Stella Walvoord, MD, a physician with Greenville Ob/Gyn Associates. “For my patients who are college students or who travel for work, it’s great that they can message me on their schedule. And those waiting for test results are especially pleased to check MyChart and not wait for a phone call.”

Dr. Walvoord continued, “Sometimes we get ‘Disney messages’—a patient is on vacation and needs a birth control prescription called in where she is, or she has developed symptoms and wants advice as to whether she needs to be seen immediately or can wait until she’s home. With MyChart, she can quickly relay her question, and we can quickly respond.”

MyChart also is used to help deliver preventive care. “Too often, patients’ preventive health is considered only when they are sitting in front of their doctor,” observed Dr. Smith. “At many GHS primary care practices, though, patient charts are regularly reviewed for opportunities appropriate for their age and risk, and then they’re reminded via MyChart that it’s time for a particular screening or test.”

Joshua Tucker, PA-C, with Riverside Family Medicine–Maxwell Pointe, agreed. “MyChart is great for following up with patients. For instance, if I’m putting a patient on a new blood pressure medicine, I’ll have him check his blood pressure at home and post his readings in MyChart for a couple of weeks before he comes in for the next visit.”

Via MyChart, patients can use SmartExam to access a GHS provider for some common health conditions. They can receive a diagnosis, treatment plan and prescription (if necessary) via email—without leaving home or work.

One reason online communication has been so successful at GHS practices is because the relationship between the patient and provider is kept in focus. “We use the portal as a communication tool, but also realize its limitations,” said Dr. Smith. “Sometimes a phone call or an office visit is what the patient needs at that moment. Ultimately, we do what’s best for the patient.”

The phone app and the online version are easy to use and, if needed, proxy access for children and caretakers can be established.

If you are not already enrolled in MyChart, register today at ghs.org/mychart.