Best Healthcare Messaging Apps 2017
Healthcare messaging apps are technology that (usually) comply with the HIPAA security privacy standards relating to the secure communication of protected health information (PHI) for healthcare organizations. Apps for secure healthcare messaging are generally more user friendly than traditional healthcare technology such as patient portals or EMR systems. Healthcare messaging apps have been associated with better care outcomes, higher patient satisfaction levels and increased practice revenue through operational efficiency.
Successful Healthcare Messaging Apps for 2017 Have These Qualities
The most successful healthcare messaging apps (and best ranked) have the following features and capabilities that will be an asset for medical practices not just in 2017, but through 2020.
Asynchronous Communication
Asynchronous communication is the type of communication that can be conducted at separate times. For example, telephone is synchronous (not asynchronous) because it needs both parties to be present at the same time to communicate. This is a major factor contributing to inefficiencies within the healthcare industry. The ability to communicate in one’s own time, allows for better, more efficient communicating.
An example of asynchronous communication would be an app that allows for patients to message medical practices, without having to be present to respond immediately.
Workflow Integration
You need to look for a healthcare messaging app that integrates into your current workflow. Sounds easy, right? Unfortunately, healthcare technology is known for lack of user friendly design and workflow integration. Some EMR systems and patient portals do have messaging capabilities, and I will say it right here: they suck. The average patient activation rate for portals is 7.5% according to the most recent MGMA study. What if you had a 7.5% retention rate on patient visits? You would be out of business. Healthcare messaging apps are uniquely suited to work within your pre-existing workflow (both internally and externally with patients).
Outcome-Focused
What’s the point of having a piece of technology, especially in healthcare that doesn’t translate to any meaningful outcomes. You can create a simple HIPAA-compliant messaging app, but without tangible goals and outcomes associated with its integration, they become a burden on your practice. Shop around for a messaging app that makes sense for the goals of your practice. Interested in optimizing revenue? Boosting your patient retention rates? Growing your practice? All of these can be achieved when you find the right healthcare messaging companion for your operations.
Which is the Best?
Klara is the forerunner of healthcare messaging apps for 2017. Triaging capabilities, integration support, goal-focused and user-friendly (over 80% adoption rate), Klara is the most promising app for 2017 and beyond. Interested in discussing more about healthcare messaging and your practice? With the potential that digital healthcare has to reduce costs, health insurers have been investing in the space. From 2011–2016, over $900 million was invested in digital health startups. Healthcare messaging is leading the way.
