How new digital tools are helping patients and providers tap into better healthcare
If you remember the countless file folders with colorful tabs you used to see in doctors’ offices, chances are good you’ve also noticed they are no longer there. There’s a good reason for it. As modern healthcare practices advance, the ability to digitize patient records and communication means providers can focus on more convenient, personal care.
“At Bon Secours, our patients have direct access to their medical record through MyChart,” shares Julia Paduano, a nurse practitioner at Stoneview Internal Medicine. “It’s a web-based portal that allows you to see surgical or inpatient notes, lab and imaging results, immunization records, and more. You can pay bills, schedule, and reschedule primary care appointments, check-in prior to visits to save time, and message your providers to ask questions…Your entire healthcare ecosystem is at your fingertips.”
TOP TECH FEATURES AND TIPS
When you’re actively communicating with your patients, I think [technology] makes the care we provide more personal,” says Paduano. “We can message you about changes within our practice, or you can write back and keep us informed of what’s going on with your health in real time.” A key feature that aids in personal communication is the ability to include pictures with messages—don’t worry, your privacy is paramount to professionals like Paduano. You can even send over forms that your employer needs completed. This open line of communication is what Paduano loves. It saves her patients from having to come in every time they need their provider’s input.
PEACE OF MIND FOR OLDER USERS
“I feel like MyChart’s tools for end-of-life planning are underutilized,” reflects Paduano. “Healthcare power of attorney, your living will, all of those important
documents can be uploaded through MyChart, where they’re validated by an advanced care planning team to make sure the signatures are on each page and that it’s dated correctly. In times of emergency, we need documents like that in order to fulfill the wishes of a patient.”
EMPOWERING TEENS, BUSY PARENTS
“One thing we always offer in MyChart is proxy access, which can be given to any legal guardian or parent, to a child or a minor, and to an adult caring for an adult,” says Paduano. This means parents can manage their child’s healthcare until they’re ready to take the reins. An automatic setting within MyChart allows older teenagers to share proxy access with parents while still respecting their healthcare rights to privacy.
“I have three kids. MyChart is great for my busy schedule,” says Paduano. “Today, the majority of businesses have call centers or long wait times. Maybe I’m traveling or can’t call during business hours.” Instead, Paduano loves being able to save time and hassle by using the MyChart portal to quickly schedule or cancel appointments, pull up immunization records, or send a picture of a mysterious rash to the pediatrician—even on vacation.
To learn more about how MyChart works or to sign up, visit bonsecours.com/mychart. You can also register at your provider’s office during your next visit.
