A new federal rule requires that all providers give patients access to clinical notes starting April 5, 2021. As a practicing physician, what do you need to know? Patients are now required to have access to clinical notes The new … Read More
Patient Engagement
Is it OK for doctors to use smartphones in front of patients?
Phone etiquette is changing fast, and it’s not always clear when and how it’s acceptable to use a smartphone. Everyone has had the experience of taking out their phone at a social gathering to send a text or look something … Read More
What are the benefits and limits of patient portals?
Patient portals are websites designed to give patients greater access to their health data online. Exactly what a portal offers depends on the vendor and specific provider, but their original purpose was to give patients easy access to their medical … Read More
How to turn EMR documentation into meaningful patient interactions
Many doctors are frustrated that electronic medical records have resulted in more time on the computer and less time with patients. But others have found clever workflow innovations that turn documentation time into meaningful patient interactions. “Wait,” you’re thinking. “Turn … Read More
3 ways eye contact will make you a better doctor
Good doctors need more than medical knowledge and technical expertise. Yet healthcare providers tend to undervalue the importance of patient communication, both verbal and nonverbal. Eye contact is one of the most powerful forms of nonverbal communication, but many physicians … Read More
How to guarantee patient satisfaction in short office visits
Physicians realize the importance of interpersonal communication skills for delivering effective care and ensuring patient satisfaction. Yet changes in healthcare are pushing doctors to care for patients in shorter visits while juggling more administrative tasks. Electronic health records also demand … Read More
Three approaches to better patient-physician communication
As a physician, one of your most underrated skills is your ability to effectively and compassionately communicate with patients. While most physicians have valuable experience from years of clinical work, few receive any formal communication training after medical school. The … Read More
How to optimize patient encounters in spite of EHRs
optimize. (verb) make the best or most effective use of (a situation, opportunity, or resource) Digitization promises to make medical care easier and more efficient. But most doctors don’t experience it that way. In the modern exam room – where … Read More