HIPAA compliant emails facilitate the appropriate use of information technology, patient-centered communication, and shared decision-making, ultimately improving patient engagement in ENT practices.
The rise of ENT specialists in the U.S.
ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialists, also known as otolaryngologists, “diagnose and treat conditions affecting [the] head and neck… offering both nonsurgical and surgical treatments,” explains Cleveland Clinic.
According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, “Otolaryngology saw 333 residents graduate in 2021, increasing to a projected 379 graduates in 2027; this averages out to a 2.18% annual growth rate.”
So, this growing supply of new otolaryngologists will need to know how to promote and support patient engagement to build a successful practice.
Patient engagement in ENT practices
Research on patient engagement in otolaryngology shows that the following factors improve patient engagement:
- “appropriate use of information technology
- patient-centered communication
- shared decision making
- patient experience measurement”
Further explaining “Patient engagement promotes safety by improving the accuracy of electronic health record data, error detection, and treatment decisions and adherence.” So, to increase patient engagement in ENT practices, providers must incorporate these components.
Using HIPAA compliant emails
Features of HIPAA compliant emails
ENT providers can use HIPAA compliant emailing platforms, like Paubox, to promote patient engagement. These platforms offer secure patient communication with features like encryption, access controls, and audit trails to safeguard patient privacy. More specially, it safeguards patients’ protected health information (PHI) throughout transmission and storage, mitigating the risk of data breaches and maintaining HIPAA compliance.
Efficient communication and timely responses
HIPAA compliant emails allow ENT practitioners to communicate with patients efficiently and securely. For example, if a patient experiences unexpected symptoms post-surgery, they can email their ENT, who then uses a HIPAA compliant email to promptly respond. The ENT guides the patient on the appropriate steps to take and offers a follow-up appointment if needed. Ultimately, this could help keep the patient informed for shared decision-making.
Convenient access to health information
ENT providers can use HIPAA compliant emails to share test results and treatment plans. For example, if a patient undergoes diagnostic testing for a suspected ENT condition, their provider can securely email their test results. The patient can then open the detailed report without navigating additional portals, delivering information conveniently and securely.
Patient privacy
ENT providers should reassure patients that using a HIPAA compliant platform, like Paubox, safeguards their sensitive information, like PHI. So, when providers send emails containing patient information, they can be confident that it is secure and protected from unauthorized access.
Patient follow-ups
HIPAA compliant emails can facilitate progress updates, adjust treatment protocols, and coordinate follow-up appointments. For example, an ENT provider can send an appointment reminder and ask the patient to provide feedback on their treatment progress.
Promoting health literacy
ENT practices can use HIPAA compliant emails to deliver educational resources, wellness tips, and preventive care reminders directly to patients' inboxes. For example, a patient diagnosed with chronic sinusitis could receive personalized educational materials, like information on their condition, treatment options, and self-care strategies, to manage their symptoms effectively between appointments.
Go deeper: How HIPAA compliant emails can increase health literacy
FAQs
How can ENT specialists enhance patient engagement?
ENT specialists can enhance patient engagement by using HIPAA compliant emails for efficient communication and convenient access to health information while protecting patient privacy.
How can ENT providers ensure HIPAA compliance when using email?
Healthcare providers must use HIPAA compliant email platforms, like Paubox, with built-in encryption and security features, like two-factor authorization. Additionally, they should implement policies for secure email communication, provide staff training on HIPAA regulations, and conduct regular audits and risk assessments to address potential vulnerabilities.
Can patients trust that their information is secure when using HIPAA compliant emails?
Yes, patients can trust that their information is secure, as these platforms adhere to security and privacy standards outlined in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to protect their sensitive information during transit and at rest.
Go deeper: What is HIPAA?
