Question

What elements should be incorporated into a patient portal? Will patient portals and Personal Health Records work? Will they lead to a healthier population? How can wellness programs be incorporated into patient portals?

Answer 1

1. In the Healthcare Information System, the electronic medical reports and patient information is provided in a secure website which can be accessed by physicians and patients known as patient portals which improve in the patient and healthcare system interact better. The elements that should be incorporated into the HRIS are

A welcome screen
Patient details like login and password, new sign up.
Information on how to operate and register
Patient demographic details and other habits etc.
Tips for a healthy life
Quick links like search, ask a question to the doctor
Scheduling Doctor appointment
Refill medicines by uploading prescriptions
View test reports, check-up dates, re-schedule or cancel appointments etc,

2. Yes, the patient portals and Personal Health Records will work, rather it is already being used in many countries and they are successful in maintaining HRIS. Yes, they will lead to a healthier population as it also creates awareness for the patients and they can keep track of their health by sending alerts for rechecks, routine checkups etc. In 2014, ONC report highlighted 46% patients viewed their reports online. Wellness programs include success stories inclusion of weight loss, smoking cessation, patient education on several diseases, avoidance of cancer, food to consume during the day, do's and do not's for better healthy life can be incorporated in the patient portals. Symptoms of some common diseases and instant relief techniques can be included in the portal in useful links etc.