The healthcare industry is changing fast these days. And if you don’t keep up with the latest patient experience trends, you will get left behind.
Unfortunately, nobody has a crystal ball. It is impossible to see exactly how things will transform as new technology emerges. But, here are three interesting trends that we have been noticing across the industry that are here to stay.
1. Patients expect more control of their experience.
In many other industries, customers have more control than ever before.
For example, the idea of watching a TV at a particular time seems laughable with the advent of streaming. People even schedule grocery deliveries from their couches.
A similar patient experience trend is unfolding in the healthcare sector.
Startups like Doctus now offer on-demand medical care. Australians can simply log on to the websites, complete a short questionnaire and a doctor will issue the correct prescription for their ailment. It saves patients time, effort and money. And for many patients who feel embarrassed to go to a local GP, it’s a lifesaver.
Of course, we don’t suggest you start treating patients by email. But you do have to offer some flexibility and choice if you want to keep up. Otherwise, patients will go to a healthcare provider who does.
Giving patients more control of their healthcare creates a better experience. And happy patients are patients who return.
2. Patients want flexibility.
As we mentioned, startups like Doctus are changing how patients access medical care.
More than ever before, people can receive care online. Appointments with general practitioners are available through video conferences. Therapists and other caregivers provide online visits. This online delivery gives patients flexibility in how and where they access services.
Now, not every health practitioner wants to offer online services. So what do you do to compete against these ‘iPad’ clinics?
The answer is to provide a superior patient experience. Make patients feel like it’s worth their time to visit your practice.
How?
There are several strategies including patient journey mapping. You can find out more about by clicking here.
3. Tailor-made patient experiences will soon be the norm
Gone are the days when you can treat everyone the same way.
In the future, medical practitioners will need to customise treatments.
One of the easiest and fastest ways to do this is to talk to the patient. Ask questions, listen to them, find out who they are and what they need.
Treat them as you would like someone to treat you. And patients will recommend you to friends and family members at every opportunity.
If you would like to find out more about improving the patient experience in your healthcare organisation, contact us today.
