The Provider's Role In Patient Engagement

Compiled by Scott Westcott, Contributing Writer

Two forward-thinking providers share how new technology and engagement tactics are helping their patients play more active roles in their own health.

Patient engagement is emerging as a clear competitive edge in the healthcare space. With the Affordable Care Act instituting measures of “quality of care” and “patient satisfaction,” and patients seeking more active roles in their own healthcare, providers are accelerating efforts to drive deeper engagement. A key to that effort is implementing technology such as patient portals that provide patients unprecedented access to their information while also creating new efficiencies for physicians and healthcare providers.

Yet the path to deeper engagement holds considerable challenges, from back office IT issues to encouraging more adoption by both medical professionals and patients. Maleigha Amyx, IT director, Rockcastle Regional Hospital and Respiratory Care Center, and Allen Weiss, M.D., CEO & president, NCH Healthcare System, shared insights on their organizations’ roles in increasing patient engagement.