Providers can use HIPAA compliant emails to securely educate patients with fibromyalgia, coordinate their care, and address the associated emotional and physical challenges, ultimately helping patients improve their quality of life.
What is fibromyalgia?
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) defines fibromyalgia as “a chronic (long-lasting) disorder that causes pain and tenderness throughout the body, as well as fatigue and trouble sleeping. Scientists do not fully understand what causes it, but people with the disorder have an increased sensitivity to pain.”
Fibromyalgia symptoms can include pain, sleep disturbances, and issues with memory and concentration, often called ‘fibro fog’. Additionally, patients can experience heightened sensitivity to environmental stimuli and digestive problems, adding to the complexity of the condition.
What causes fibromyalgia?
While “fibromyalgia affects about 4 million US adults [or] 2% of the adult population, the cause of fibromyalgia is not known, but it can be effectively treated and managed,” as evidenced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
However, managing this condition requires a multifaceted approach that balances symptom management, education, and coordinated care.
How HIPAA compliant email can help
HIPAA compliant emails are a secure solution for educating patients, coordinating care, and addressing the emotional and physical challenges of this disorder.
Moreover, HIPAA compliant platforms, like Paubox, offer advanced security measures to protect patients’ protected health information (PHI) during transmission and at rest.
Support symptom management
Fibromyalgia symptoms, like chronic pain, can have a severe impact on a patient’s quality of life. Effective symptom management often involves movement therapy, medication, and psychological support. Providers can use HIPAA compliant emails to send personalized exercise programs for alleviating muscle stiffness, ultimately, improving their mobility.
Educating patients
Fibromyalgia is often misunderstood, even by those who experience it. Moreover, NIAMS notes that genetic factors will likely contribute to the disorder.
So, sending HIPAA compliant emails with educational materials can help patients and their families understand its causes, symptoms, and management options.
Coordinating care for comorbidities
Many fibromyalgia patients also face conditions like lupus, depression, or chronic back pain. Secure email facilitates communication between specialists, so all parties are informed about the patient’s treatment plan.
For example, a neurologist treating ‘fibro fog’ can coordinate with a rheumatologist to address joint pain while maintaining the patient’s privacy.
Addressing mental health challenges
Living with fibromyalgia can take a toll on mental health, with many patients experiencing anxiety or depression. HIPAA compliant email is a discreet way for patients to reach out for help and for providers to offer resources, like counseling referrals or mindfulness strategies.
Access to support networks
HIPAA compliant email also allows patients to benefit from peer support, educational webinars, or practical tools like pain diaries. Providers can also share secure links to local support groups, invite patients to informational sessions, or provide symptom-tracking templates.
Ultimately, helping patients take an active role in their care while respecting their privacy.
Related: Empowering patients with HIPAA compliant emails and texts
FAQs
What is HIPAA compliance?
HIPAA compliance refers to adhering to regulations outlined in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act to safeguard patients’ protected health information (PHI).
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' PHI during transmission and at rest.
Can providers email patients with disabilities?
Yes, emails can be tailored to accommodate diverse needs and abilities, using features like screen readers and alternative text to ensure accessibility for patients with disabilities.
Read also: Email for mental healthcare access in people with disabilities
