We've all been invited to an engagement party–engagement in our own health and wellness. Patient engagement is built into law. It reflects the aims we hear from healthcare organizations globally.
But why are we so excited? And why now? Here are several converging forces:
Philosophical – We have reached a tipping point in favor of the healthcare consumer. Providers are investing in patient partnerships. Few question the right to access one's own health record, as well as information about quality, safety, cost, and care options.
Technical – EHR adoption plus enhanced interoperability makes it possible to present a comprehensive health record to a patient in a meaningful way through a single online portal.
Financial – Health systems at risk under value-based care models believe engaged patients will pursue healthy behaviors, leading to lower utilization.
With so much support for engagement, the party should go on for long time. But there are cynics, so here is a final thought: Successful relationships require investment, creativity, and commitment.
Activating the patient portal that comes supplied with your EHR and getting enough logins to qualify for Meaningful Use isn't true engagement. But if we push through to provide real value, we will have something worth celebrating.
You can join the patient engagement “party” at InterSystems Booth 961 at HIMSS15, or see more information at www.InterSystems.com/HIMSS15MH
