We first mentioned the ePatient trend at the end of last year, and now it's time to really dig into who the ePatient is, and how you can utilize your EHR software to better serve them. In simple terms, the ePatient is someone who fully participates in their healthcare through the use of electronic tools. But, there is more to it than just knowing who the ePatient is. We're going to take it one step further and help you understand how the use of technology is shaping these patients in your eyecare practice.

We've broken down this trend into four P's that will help you and your team better understand the ePatient, and how you can use your EHR software to provide better care for them in your practice. 

The Four P's of Using EHR Software to
Care for ePatients

1. Provide

Technology has provided the ePatient with all of the necessary information they need in order to take an active role in their healthcare, and it's important that your EHR software does the same. Software featuring patient portals further provides the ePatient with useful health education. Patients being supplied with information directly from their ODs feel added security in knowing the information is coming from a reliable source.

Even outside of your patient portal, patients are always searching the Internet for health information. If you have the resources to provide more information to your patients through a blog or social media, it's a great way to help build up the credibility of your practice!

2. Participate

Easy access to information encourages patients to participate in matters regarding their own personal health. Practice software that offers secure messaging between patient and provider encourages conversations to take place, allowing you to build relationships and trust with patients. This is vital for getting ePatients to become repeat customers in your practice.

Beyond the patient portal, patients are participating in online forms with each other to share information and experiences. So, a better communication experience with your practice will inspire them to share with others, which could in turn generate more customers for you!

3. Prepare

ePatients want to feel prepared before taking action related to healthcare. Your practice software can further prepare them by making it easy for patients to do things online, like schedule appointments or provide necessary pre-exam information. This allows for shorter and more successful office visits.

A big part of this is that many patients aren't aware that these features are available. So, marketing your patient portal and appointment options is an important step in the process!

4. Permit

It is important that ePatients have the capability of taking responsible actions in their medical care. Permit them to do so by providing the information they need quickly and efficiently. Use your practice software to send visit summaries to you patients, or communicate with them about important treatment instructions. This clears up any confusion a patient might have post-visit, and leaves them feeling secure!

Now that you know how to effectively use EHR software to better care for your ePatients, explore Uprise to find out if it can help you meet your ePatient needs.