It involves more than providing diagnostic and treatment expertise. Today, meeting patients’ needs includes using electronic tools that make it easier for everyone to communicate.

Results from a just published survey show a disconnect between patient desires and provider services.

• 82% of patients never received an email message from their primary healthcare provider
• Only 15% indicated that their healthcare providers give them the option of scheduling their own appointments by email or through a Web site
• Nearly three-quarters of patients would prefer paying medical bills online
• But only one in seven can do so
• Three out of four patients currently pay their medical bills via postal mail
• But only 30% actually prefer this approach

Note to CAM providers: To provide a service that will be appreciated by your patients, make better use of the Internet.

8/2/06 18:15 JR