Smartphones are modernizing the traditional medical imaging practice. Patients no longer leave their appointment carrying a CD, which will inevitably be lost or forgotten by the time they need it for their next appointment. Now, they simply login to their secure online portal and pull up their image whenever and wherever it's needed. For providers who are considering adopting this new method of imaging delivery, we have some thoughts for you.
You’ve probably noticed, as I have, a growing trend of friends and relatives sharing photos of their medical images on social media. I’ve noted everything from ultrasounds to x-rays increasingly pop up in my Facebook and Instagram feeds. These posts are often to keep friends and family updated with personal developments such as “We’re pregnant!” or “I broke my leg… please send thoughts, prayers and takeout!” But recently, one particular post caught my eye...
Topics: patient access
Many physicians we speak with think it is heresy to charge their patients for access to their own medical images. There are a host of good reasons they use in opposing our view: They say they don't want to "nickel and dime" their patients. Or, that they are focused on satisfying their patients and that this charge is a dissatisfier. We understand why they feel that way. But, we implore them to consider changing their opinion. Here’s why…
Topics: patient access, patient pay
Harry went on vacation with his family, and ended up in the doctor’s office.
While out on an excursion, the adventurous 13-year-old fell and hurt his leg, leaving him unable to walk. Harry’s dad immediately used his cellphone to search for the nearest doctor’s office. Opting for the closest office with the best ratings, Harry’s dad brought him in to have the physician look at his leg. A few hours and an x-ray later, they returned to the hotel with a clear diagnosis: Harry fractured his leg and required a cast.
Topics: patient access, millennials, patient pay, Gen Z
If you are not yet convinced to give up burning CDs for your patients, then you might want to review what the recipient of these discs thinks about your current practice....
Topics: patient access, Imaging Centers, Burning CDs, subspecialists
