Healthcare providers and patients are relying on technology tools to help coordinate care and provide ongoing treatment options to patients effectively. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Patient Portal EMR Software platform was seen even more useful to help patients manage their health data, view their COVID results, and became valuable for vaccinations. A 2020  literature review in the journal vaccine revealed that Electronic Health Records (EHR) Software and patient portals were somewhat successful in facilitating patients coordinate their vaccinations related to flu shots and childhood vaccines. The robust platform has become a critical part of healthcare during the pandemic maintaining smooth communication between the provider and the patient.  66% of the largest hospitals in the United States use an online patient portal facility which helps to boost the patient experience.

Value of Patient Portals during COVID-19 – 6 Benefits

  1. Scheduling COVID-19 vaccinations – The patient portal technology is the focus of many statewide vaccination efforts in the United States. Priority patients in Colorado can use their doctor’s patient portal to schedule their COVID-19 vaccinations encouraging vaccination access during these trying times.
  2. Book telemedicine appointments – A good patient portal platform seamlessly integrates with the Telemedicine EMR Software platform which helps patients book telehealth appointments in a breeze. As patients schedule their online session they receive handy information through their patient portal about how to log in for the visit and how to make the appointment successful.
  3. Lab and COVID-19 results – The patient portal EMR Software platform is used by many hospitals and clinics to send test results. Patients can easily receive and view their results from antibody testing and COVID-19 testing. With quick test result delivery to patients with COVID, positive results can quarantine at the right time and keep everyone around them safe from catching the contagious virus.
  4. Sharing of critical information – Patient portals can be used by providers to communicate and share important data related to COVID-19, changes in hours of work, and updating patients regarding safety protocols.
  5. Prescription refills – Portals can be used by patients to directly request a prescription refill by simply logging in. They can then communicate with their pharmacy to decide on the curbside or drive-through pick-up of their prescriptions. This adds to convenience as the patient no longer needs to call your office to request a refill.
  6. Timely patient-provider communication – The HIPAA Compliant messaging features of the patient portal supports smooth, secure, and timely communication with the healthcare provider. Patients can ask quick questions related to certain symptoms and easily manage their conditions from home. Through easy communication, patients can maintain their health without having to visit the doctor’s office.

Final Takeaway

The patient portal platform is seen as an instrumental tool as healthcare organizations and hospitals manage the alarming COVID-19 situation. Digital tools and healthcare technology will dominate the world even after the pandemic is overdue to its many benefits and convenience options to patient population groups at large.