Innovative clinical trial solutions have become widely used, which also enables researchers to increase efficiency and improve patient participation. Patient engagement should happen before, during, and even after their visits. In addition, it should go beyond that to include aftercare. That’s why the use of technology is a crucial element that a clinical research organization like Veristat should consider when doing clinical trials. However, using technology in patient engagement can help rectify this and build strong healthcare relationships. Let’s find out how below
Use of Telemedicine
Telemedicine refers to using technology to administer remote healthcare services such as check-ups. This is done when both the patient and physician are not in a position to meet physically. Most institutions were on lockdown during this time, which meant patients could not have in-person hospital visits. But with telemedicine, i.e., video calls, text messages, and computers, patients could still get proper care at home. It also meant remote inspection for clinical trials could be done smoothly. Telemedicine can build patient engagement by catering to patients in hard-to-reach places and offering convenience for patients with mobility issues. It is also cost-saving since patients do not have to travel to and from the hospital.
Adopting social media
Use of social media channels can be beneficial and educational provided, it’s used correctly. This results from the fact that most regular internet users search for information related to finances, research, health, and personal development. Patients can profit from this by participating in online health forums and providing evidence based on personal experience. Additionally, individuals can learn more about their illnesses or disorders and various chronic conditions. By learning from others’ experiences, patients can gain knowledge and advice on how to live healthy lives. Not to mention the support they can get from being a part of a community.
Reinvent EMR
Although the use of technology in patient engagement is not new, it has not been efficient. This is because the entire process has been one-way traffic. Physicians would inform the patient of what needs or is to be done without providing room for the patient’s feedback. This engagement does not build trust and confidence in the healthcare process. This is the same as attending a lecture where the professor explains a diagram you cannot see. Similarly, the use of EMR should be reinvented so that patients can view what physicians are referring to. The process should also be open to allow patients to ask questions, get clarifications, and give their feedback. Building this kind of involvement helps to establish a patient-centered form of healthcare.
Encourage the use of mobile technology
It is important to provide room for patients to express themselves. Even with a physical hospital, visit, self-expression is not always possible, perhaps because the patient does not feel confident or free to do so. To avoid this, it is best to meet patients where they are. This means engaging with them in a way that is free and comfortable. This can, in one way, be achieved through Smartphones. Depending on the patient, you might realize that they are more expressive and receptive when conversing virtually compared to physical conversations. Before patients can come in for a checkup, upload their results on their portal and encourage them to view them before they come in. This will allow them to have an idea of what will be discussed and to prepare for it. In addition, you can use smartphones and patient portals to keep them updated.
Patient engagement can help achieve better health and clinical trial outcomes. It allows the patient to be actively involved in the process, and they are free to give their feedback and ask questions. With technology, patient engagement becomes an open process convenient for patients and healthcare providers.
