Texting Is Better than Office Visits

Patients expect their medical professionals to use more technology such as text and emails. According to a report, patients expect technology to aid communication with providers for faster and more cost-effective healthcare. Key findings also included: 85% of patients feel that high-tech communication channels such as email, text messages and voicemails are more helpful than in-person or phone conversations with their healthcare provider; one in three U.S. consumers asserts that receiving text messages, voicemails or emails that provide patient care between visits would increase feelings of trust in their provider; and of the 66% of patients who have received a voicemail, text or email from a healthcare provider, 51% reported feeling more valued as a patient; 35% said digital communication improved their opinion of their provider; and 34% reported feeling more certain about visiting that healthcare provider again. "Technology Beyond the Exam Room: How Digital Media is Helping Doctors Deliver the Highest Level of Care," by Televox.