SGMC Health Launches "Hello World" Texting to Enhance Patient Communication

A New Era in Healthcare Communication

SGMC Health is thrilled to announce the launch of its innovative text messaging platform, powered by Epic's Hello World. This groundbreaking initiative aims to revolutionize the way patients interact with their healthcare providers, making it more convenient, personalized, and accessible.

What is Hello World?

Hello World is a two-way text messaging system integrated into Epic's cloud-based communications platform. It allows healthcare providers to send patients a variety of updates and notifications, including appointment reminders, prescription reminders, billing notifications, care reminders, and new test result links. But what truly sets it apart is the ability for patients to respond directly via text, making it easier than ever to manage their healthcare needs.

How Does it Work?

The process is simple yet powerful. Patients who opt-in to the Hello World system can receive texts from SGMC Health regarding various aspects of their care. For example, they might receive reminders about upcoming appointments or links to join video visits. With the two-way functionality, patients can easily respond to these messages by texting back with simple prompts. They can confirm appointments, cancel them if needed, or even pay bills directly through this platform.

Benefits for Patients and Healthcare Providers

The introduction of Hello World brings numerous benefits to both patients and healthcare providers.

Convenience for Patients

• Accessibility: Patients without smartphones can still receive and respond to messages, ensuring that everyone has a convenient communication channel.
• Timeliness: With messages delivered directly to their phones, patients are more likely to stay on top of their appointments and treatments.
• Personalization: Patients can customize their communication preferences through MyChart, allowing them to receive only the updates they need.

Time and Resource Efficiency for Healthcare Providers

• Streamlined Communication: Healthcare providers can save time and resources by automating routine communications, such as appointment reminders and billing updates.
• Improved Health Equity: By providing an alternative communication channel, Hello World helps bridge the gap for patients who may not have access to smartphones, thereby improving health equity.

How to Opt-In and Manage Notifications

Opting-in to the Hello World system is straightforward and can be done in several ways:

1. Texting: Patients can text "START" to 83176 to begin receiving notifications.
2. MyChart: They can log into their MyChart account and set up customized notifications in their Communication Preferences under the main menu.
3. Clinic Visit: Front desk team members at SGMC Health can activate the notifications during a patient's next clinic visit.

Once opted-in, patients can easily manage their communication preferences by logging into their MyChart account. To stop receiving notifications, they can text "STOP" to 83176 or adjust their settings in MyChart.

Addressing Potential Issues

While the system is designed to be user-friendly, some patients may encounter issues. To resolve these, patients can reply with the keyword "HELP" for more assistance. Alternatively, they can contact the support team directly at 503-221-0161, ext. 8154 or email [email protected].

Cost and Security

The use of Hello World does not incur any additional charges from SGMC Health. However, patients may be responsible for any standard text messaging rates associated with their cell phone carrier and service plan. The system is secure and designed to protect patient data, ensuring that all communications are safe and confidential.

Future Enhancements

The launch of Hello World is just the beginning. SGMC Health plans to continue adding new features to enhance the patient experience. With a focus on continuous improvement, the platform aims to provide even more personalized and accessible communication options for patients.

Conclusion

The introduction of Hello World text messaging by SGMC Health marks a significant step forward in patient communication. By leveraging the power of SMS technology, healthcare providers can deliver timely and personalized updates directly to patients' phones. This innovative approach not only enhances patient engagement but also streamlines communication for healthcare providers, ultimately improving overall healthcare outcomes.

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References The Portland Clinic. Manage your healthcare with Hello World text notifications. Retrieved from https://www.theportlandclinic.com/manage-your-health-care-with-hello-world-text-notifications/ Syniverse. Syniverse and Epic Introduce Text Messaging through Hello World. Retrieved from https://www.syniverse.com/news-and-events/syniverse-and-epic-introduce-text-messaging-through-hello-world/ MyMichigan Health. MyMichigan Health Launching “Hello World,” Improving Patient Reminder Texts. Retrieved from https://www.mymichigan.org/about/news/2024/hello-world/