PATIENT PORTALS - PRO OR CON?

Tinkrbl44 · ‎08-23-2010

I have suddenly been getting daily emails "inviting" me to set up a portal.

For some reason, I think I read comments here a while back saying some didn't like them ... or had problems ... or something.

So, as of May 2023 .... what's your take on them?

on the bay · ‎03-09-2010

@Tinkrbl44,

I have one and it is really convenient.

You can read any test results, doctors notes, send a message, read any message, make an appointment.

It is a nice way to communicate and get information in your own time.

"If you walk the footsteps of a stranger, you'll learn things you never knew. Can you sing with all the voices of the mountains? can you paint with all the colors of the wind?"

ruthbe · ‎05-05-2016

I just want to make sure...you are talking to patient portals where you review your own medical records....example from your physician...

If so I think is a definite YES. I have worked in medical records for 40 years. You reallt need to review and keep track your records. You have every right to the information. Plus check for any errors.

I check mine often. Especially if I have visited my doctor...had an x-ray, lab work, etc.

If you have any questions regarding what you have read...please talk to your doctor...which they should be contacting you about your results. Plus if you have access to your results...you can prepare yourself for any questions you might have.

on the bay · ‎03-09-2010

@Tinkrbl44,You can also get test, lab results fairly quickly and without calling the drs office.

"If you walk the footsteps of a stranger, you'll learn things you never knew. Can you sing with all the voices of the mountains? can you paint with all the colors of the wind?"

spiderw · ‎06-14-2010

I have two patient portals I refer to and find them to be easy, convenient and informative. I can see test results and request refills on my meds when necessary. I haven't found the portals to be a problem or difficult to navigate.

Janey2 · ‎06-07-2010

I have a different take....unless you are in the medical profession it is not always easy to understand test results. A number of times I looked at my blood work results and thought something might be wrong. When the office called to explain nothing was wrong I try not to look at results, makes me nervous.

jpie · ‎06-21-2010

I have two or three different medical portals. My PCP is in a different system than all of my other medical providers.

Both portals are convenient, but there is always a verification code that is sent to you by text or email to confirm your identity. Sometimes, this can be a hassle, but very necessary to for your own protection.

Through these portals, you can see past results (some going back a few years), current results of tests and procedures, doctor comments in detail, confirming current medication, insurance authorization, future appointments within that health care system, and so much more.

You can also pay in advance for co-pays and balances so that it is a quicker check-in upon appointment day.

Once you get used to it, it is a very efficient for the patient and all employees. Plus it saves filling out page after page of forms at the medical office.

Mom2Dogs · ‎03-09-2010

@Tinkrbl44 I have one as does my husband. Early test results and also contacting your doctor is a convenience using the portal.

Just today I had to contact my doctor over a situation I am dealing with. I did not get a return message today but I am certain I will tomorrow. I hope instead of seeing the physician again I can be referred to another doctor /specialist that can help me out or at least schedule a test so that I don't have to have an appointment first.

Last week I had to contact my husbands physician over lab results that they lost!

It was much easier than calling the office, being put on hold for a long period....I got it resolved in one day.

NicksmomESQ · ‎08-19-2014

I set one up for my DH when he was treated for prostate cancer 2 years ago. I find it very easy to communicate with his doctors. I get responses within a couple of hours. Last year I messaged the doctor on a Friday evening, thinking I wouldn't get a response until Monday morning.He actually responded on Saturday morning!!

I also get test results very quickly too.

The doctor had suggested I set one up. He said it would be a faster way to contact him than calling the office & leaving a message.He was so right.

Bookplate · ‎08-19-2011

I agree with other posters that they can be very useful, especially for test results. However, my complaint is that every single doctor I see has one now and they all expect me to participate. Like I need a half a dozen more logins in my life. Some softwear companies are making a killing selling these things to medical offices.