For this discussion of online patient intake forms, let us be clear that our definition of an online patient intake form, is a secure, encrypted and interactive form; the patient can access the form electronically and can type in and submit the information when the form is completed; the practice can immediately access the information and import the form into their EMR or practice management software.
Patients
In today’s economy, time is so precious. Patients don’t like coming in early to fill out forms; they don’t appreciate waiting way past their appointed time to be seen.
Patients are looking for modern and efficient practitioners who will provide better care; patients want to feel secure and comfortable; patients want the practice management to respect their time and for the doctor to take his/her time with them.
Staff
New patients require more preparation and often arrive late, which makes front desk workers fall behind on their work. Getting the forms prior to the patient’s appointment is critical to patient flow and treatment. The PatientStudio clients, when surveyed, reported an average savings of 20 minutes per new patient from using our online patient intake forms. Think of all that time that could be reserved for treatment or just catching up on other work.
Doctors
Patients receive better quality care since the doctor can review and prepare for their appointment ahead of time. Having the information before the patient’s appointment and to be able to evaluate the patient and their history at a convenient, quiet time makes the doctor’s life much less stressful and that in itself, can lead to greater productivity.
Online patient intake forms have many advantages to your practice such as eliminating delays, validating insurance before the patient’s visit, less mistakes in collecting information and the ability to red-flag medical issues before the patient arrives. These are some of the specifics, but they all contribute to the ultimate goal – making health care easier, less time consuming and less stressful for all those involved.