Patient Engagement: Is Patient-Provider Texting Right for Your Practice?

Why This Topic Matters

Patient messaging can affect workflow, patient experience, and regulatory compliance. Understanding the related CMS, HIPAA, and health IT considerations helps practices assess whether texting is appropriate before adopting or expanding mobile communication tools.

Article Sections

1. Mobile patient engagement overview

   Introduces the shift toward mobile communication in patient engagement and the growing interest in instant messaging tools. It frames texting as part of broader practice communication trends.

2. CMS guidance on provider texting

   Summarizes recent CMS guidance about texting between providers and related communication practices. It also notes the agency's emphasis on compliant handling of orders and provider messaging.

3. Secure messaging and EHR connectivity

   Discusses secure patient-provider messaging options offered through vendors and EHR-connected tools. It also connects messaging adoption with health IT capabilities and support resources.

4. MACRA and Advancing Care Information

   Places secure messaging within MACRA-related health IT reporting considerations. The section references Certified EHR Technology and reporting options tied to the IT component of the program.

5. Questions to ask before adopting texting

   Presents practical evaluation questions for practices considering texting as part of their communication strategy. The discussion focuses on patient readiness, local competition, costs, and vendor support.

6. HIPAA and mobility guidance

   Reviews privacy and security resources related to mobile communication and protected health information. It highlights federal guidance sources relevant to secure implementation.