NASHVILLE, Tenn., Aug. 4, 2015 – With the end of summer ushering in fall’s cold and flu season, medical practices can expect to see a surge in patient visits and after-hours consultations. As the volume of appointments and communications increase, the medical community’s demand for tools to streamline and increase the efficiency of provider-patient interaction also rises.
“We’re not sure why the trigger for flu is the colder months, but it’s probably related to people being in groups together, such as going back to school. Older patients who are prone to flu and colds often develop more serious issues along with flu and cold, such as pneumonia, and complications with congestive heart failure, COPD and asthma,” said Nashville physician, Dan Rudd, M.D., founder and creator of getRx, a mobile prescription and secure prescriber-patient communications app.
Dr. Rudd suggests five ways practitioners can use simple methods as well as new technologies to have a more productive season.
- Build in time for patients with acute issues
Practices may be able to set aside daily time allotments for patients with acute illnesses and allow patients with urgent needs to book same-day appointments. This prevents providers from overbooking. For offices that are busy all the time, the reality may be extended hours during the work week or opening for a half-day on the weekends.
- Save time prescribing
“As a physician, one of the real hassles of the job has always been spending way too much time writing prescriptions and calling the pharmacy” said Dr. Rudd. The getRx mobile prescription app allows prescribers to write, send and document prescriptions in less than 20 seconds.
- Use electronic and digital equipment
Using electronic vital signs machines, digital x-rays and point-of-service tests assists practitioners and their teams in obtaining instant readings and timely diagnostics.
- Reduce unnecessary follow-up appointments
The getRx mobile application allows patients and prescribers to securely text back and forth, even after hours and on weekends, allowing patients to communicate symptoms and prescribers to send prescriptions to pharmacies in just a few seconds without having to make extra appointments, calls or visit the office. This also reduces time spent clearing call backlogs on Monday mornings.
- Make self-health a priority
Never forget basic hand-washing and hygiene. One thing that will slow down a practice is if the provider gets sick. So make sure you don’t pass those germs around or take them home to your family.
The getRx mobile app is available for prescribers and patients in the Apple, Google Play, and Amazon app stores.