With the rise of patient-centered care, providers must use HIPAA compliant emails to equip patients with the knowledge they need to make healthcare decisions that promote better health outcomes.
The connection between patient empowerment and outcomes
According to what the evidence shows about patient activation, “There is a growing body of evidence showing that patients who are more activated have better health outcomes and care experiences…”
The study further notes, “policies and interventions aimed at strengthening patients' role in managing their health care can contribute to improved outcomes and that patient activation can-and should-be measured as an intermediate outcome of care that is linked to improved outcomes.”
Therefore, healthcare providers must empower patients to be active participants in their healthcare to promote a collaborative relationship. The study shows that using this approach can improve adherence to medication regimens, attendance at follow-up appointments, and the management of chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension.
How HIPAA compliant emails can help
Secure communication
HIPAA compliant email solutions, like Paubox, use advanced security measures, including encryption and access controls to safeguard patients’ protected health information (PHI) during transit and at rest.
It allows patients to share sensitive information like their symptoms and medication concerns while mitigating the risk of interception and potential data breaches.
Information accessibility
Providers can use HIPAA compliant emails to send patients educational materials, lab results, or appointment reminders, empowering them with the information they need to make informed decisions.
These emails also facilitate immediate responses so patients can contact their providers with direct questions and updates.
Digitized health information and patient behavior
HIPAA compliant emails give patients and providers direct access to digitized health information. When patients can view their medical records, test results, and care plans through secure portals or emails, they are better equipped to understand their health conditions.
For example, a provider sends HIPAA compliant emails to a patient with a newly diagnosed chronic condition like high cholesterol, giving them tailored educational content like dietary recommendations, lifestyle modifications, and the importance of adhering to prescribed medications.
So, once they patient understands the "why" behind their treatment plan, they can better manage their condition.
Tangible impacts
There are tangible benefits of empowering patients through secure communication and access to information. Like, if a patient is managing type 2 diabetes, their provider can send regular reminders about upcoming appointments and routine screenings.
Additionally, the patient can respond with updates on their blood sugar levels and request educational materials about appropriate nutrition and exercise.
These small but significant interactions contribute to better disease management and, ultimately, improved health outcomes. Empowered patients are also more likely to report higher care satisfaction, creating a positive feedback loop that benefits patients and providers.
FAQs
Do providers need patient consent for HIPAA compliant emails?
Yes, a provider must get explicit patient consent before sharing their PHI through HIPAA compliant emails.
Learn more: A HIPAA consent form template that's easy to share
Are standard emails secure for discussing sensitive healthcare information?
No, standard emails do not provide the necessary encryption to protect sensitive healthcare information from potential breaches. So, providers must use a HIPAA compliant email platform, like Paubox, to safeguard patients' protected health information (PHI) during transmission and at rest.
Can AI be integrated into HIPAA compliant emails?
Yes, AI-powered features can be integrated with HIPAA compliant emailing platforms, like Paubox, to automate processes like patient consent management and send personalized emails while maintaining HIPAA compliance.
Read also: Support the HHS's AI strategic plan with HIPAA compliant email
