Imagine being a patient of physician for decades and entering the same health center for medical appointments, exams, and consultations. You’ve grown familiar with staff and accustomed to organizational processes. Everything and everyone is basically unchanged each time you come in for a visit.
Then, you’re told by the front desk attendant that a new system has been integrated. A physician’s assistant explains the electronic healthcare software that’s being used now and lets you know how the alteration will affect you. Although it sounds like a step in the right direction, you’re naturally skeptical because you’ve grown to trust the traditional way that things have been handled.
This is exactly what it’s like for many patients who receive healthcare services from medical facilities that have upgraded to the comprehensive EMR system. Although the new process is exciting and represents evolution in the medical industry, it’s essential to consider the feelings and thoughts of your patients since they’ll likely need time to adjust. Here are some things to keep in mind as you help individuals get comfortable with the new processes that are in place.
Familiarize Yourself
In order to help others get accustomed to something that seems like a foreign process, you should initially be able to maneuver through the system as well. This means taking the time to learn how to navigate the EMR system, learning keypad shortcuts, and other actions that simplify the process. A patient that has more confidence in your ability to handle new software is more likely to develop an interest and become more acclimated.
Point Out Enhancements in Medical Services
The next thing you should do is emphasize the multiple advantages of the electronic healthcare software. The system has more storage space and can be accessed by more than one person at a time, resulting in a boost in efficiency and productivity. Patients will find this satisfying because it ultimately leads to faster and better results in their medical care.
Engage the Patient
Finally, it’s essential to consider the level of interest. Make your patients are fully engaged with the new EMR system. Technological advancements may be possess more results in the long run, but it’s natural to feel overwhelmed or even bored with this kind of growth, especially if individuals aren’t accustomed to the Internet or electronic procedures. Those who aren’t tech savvy or accustomed to using the computer applications to handle their affairs can easily lose interest if they’re not thoroughly entertained. Be sure to capture and hold your patients’ attention by creating interactive techniques that immerse them into this novel procedure. Otherwise, you risk having a process that’s more physician-friendly than patient-oriented which can lead to less than promising exchanges between clients and staff members.
