4. Evaluate and iterate
As you have more experience with the virtual care process, you can evaluate what is working well and build off those. For example, if your patients are pleased with your video telehealth appointments, you may be ready to implement text and email appointment reminders. Once those are working well, you can determine if there is other information - such as test results or links to educational material - that you can also deliver via these secure electronic means. But, if a new virtual care solution doesn't work well, there's no need to scrap it altogether. You can iterate and make adjustments so that the process ultimately delivers your desired results.
Implementing new technology and undergoing a significant digital transformation may seem like an overwhelming process, particularly at a time when COVID-19 is placing so many new demands on your practice and your staff. However, you don't need to launch a full virtual care strategy all at once.
The key is to have a strong foundation on which to build, then add solutions in a strategic way - considering those that will have the most positive impact on your patients or practice workflow. Once a solution is implemented, measure it - then iterate and adjust if needed - to ensure it is having a meaningful impact and meeting your goals. By taking this approach, you can significantly improve patient engagement and satisfaction, and achieve long-term success at your practice through continued innovation.
About the author: Michael Morgan is the president of Updox. With a successful track record in helping organizations use technology to transform the way healthcare is delivered, Mike has more than 25 years of healthcare leadership within software, behavioral health, and HIT organizations. Updox, an EverCommerce company, was named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in America for the past six consecutive years.
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