A study found that 60% of adults in the US use all three screen displays (cell phone, tablet, and desktop) to get their health information. This statistic should signal to providers that it’s more important than ever to stay ahead of tech advancements in their practices. One of the most impactful innovations in recent years is integrating mobile technology into healthcare organizations.  

Practitioners must take advantage of this mobile health (mHealth) technology to stay competitive—or get left behind. 

This article covers the key advantages of integrating mobile devices into today’s medical practice. We also explain why providers must adopt mHealth technology to improve communication and data collection, maintain smooth operations, and deliver the best personalized patient care and outcomes. 

Mobile Tech and Personalized Patient Care 

The global mHealth market is projected to reach $189 billion by 2025. This forecast only supports the fact that providers need to embrace this digital transformation.  

By leveraging the capabilities of this healthcare technology, like smartphones, wearables, and apps, practices become more efficient, and personalized care plans become more accessible. Here’s how: 

Improving Access 

Mobile technology allows providers to access patient information fast and efficiently. With electronic health records (EHR) accessible through tablets and smartphones, providers no longer need to burn the midnight oil sifting through piles of paperwork. For patients, especially those with limited access to a computer, mobile functionality such as sending statements to a patient’s phone improves access and transparency with payments.  

For example, the EHR platform DrChrono offers a cloud-based iPad EHR app. This solution integrates patient information, scheduling, clinical workflow, and medical billing. The platform also provides a full-featured EHR on iPhone, which allows providers to document an entire patient encounter, lock notes, and bill insurance. It also offers an integrated payment solution for patients where providers can send electronic statements to patients’ phones or text payment links. 

Fostering Real-time Communication 

Mobile technology facilitates real-time communication between healthcare teams. Whether a quick consultation with a specialist or sharing patient updates with a nursing team, mHealth technology ensures everyone stays connected. This enhanced communication can lead to faster decision-making and better-coordinated care. 

Patient Management Made Easy 

Remote patient monitoring (RPM) devices, enabled by mHealth technology, allow providers to track patients’ vital signs and other health metrics in real time. This tech is particularly beneficial for managing chronic conditions and post-operative care. By receiving timely alerts, providers can intervene quickly, potentially reducing hospital readmissions. 

For example, the Corrie app connects with a smartwatch to track a patient’s heartbeat and a wireless cuff to track blood pressure. It also acts as a management tool by alerting patients to schedule a follow-up appointment or take medications.  

Using eForms or patient intake forms, where patients can fill out appointment forms online from any device, can also simplify patient management. The communication platform Updox and patient management software CollaborateMD both offer this functionality, providing convenience for both patient and provider. They can also send texts with links to mobile-friendly forms. 

Smoother Operations 

One report cited the increased use of virtual health for primary care as projected to save $10 billion. If adopted more widely in healthcare, artificial intelligence (AI) based tools could also save the US up to $360 billion (about $1,100 per person) annually, according to Healthcare Dive.  

These stats really show how healthcare technology can save organizations and providers money. But even more, mHealth can save time, optimize data collection, and improve operational efficiency. Here’s how: 

Simplifying Front-end Processes 

Mobile apps for appointment scheduling make it easier for patients to manage and book their appointments. This also reduces the administrative burden on staff and minimizes no-shows, leading to more efficient use of time and resources. 

This mHealth technology also makes the patient check-in process easier. For example, DrChrono’s iPad EHR app offers a HIPAA-compliant Patient Portal that allows providers to schedule and update visits and sign consent forms before appointments. 

Digitizing Rx  

Technology like electronic prescribing or e-prescriptions enables a provider to electronically send an accurate and understandable prescription directly to a pharmacy from the point of care. 

For example, DrChronos offers an eRX tool that allows providers to e-prescribe controlled and non-controlled substances via iPad, iPhone, or the web. This mHealth solution reduces medication errors, increases productivity, and improves patient safety. 

Boosting Data Collection 

Mobile technology streamlines the collection and analysis of patient data. Wearable devices can track health metrics and send the data straight to providers, reducing the need for manual entry and minimizing errors. This data can be used to identify trends, predict health issues, and personalize treatment plans. 

Improving Inventory Management 

Managing medical supplies and medication inventory can be prone to error. Mobile apps designed for inventory management help track stock levels, set reorder points, and prevent shortages. This ensures that providers always have the necessary supplies to deliver quality care. 

Creating Patient Agency 

Mobile technology gives patients a strong sense of agency over their health in three key ways, including: 

1.Telehealth Services 

Secure telehealth platforms enable video consultations, allowing patients to receive medical advice from anywhere. This not only removes barriers for patients but also improves their satisfaction. 

2. Personalized education 

Mobile apps and platforms provide patients with valuable information about their health conditions and treatments. Through educational reminders, content, and personalized tips, providers can empower patients to actively participate in their health management. 

3. Medication Compliance 

Mobile apps can also help patients stick to their medication schedules by sending reminders and tracking their intake. This is beneficial for patients with chronic conditions who require strict medication regimens. 

What’s Next? 

Integrating mHealth technology in healthcare practices is no longer a luxury but a necessity. From enhancing patient care to streamlining operations and boosting patient communication, the benefits are undeniable.  

Healthcare providers who adopt mobile technology can expect improved efficiency, better patient outcomes, and a real competitive edge in the industry. 

Ready to add mobile technology into your practice? Start exploring the options today to transform the way you connect with patients and deliver healthcare.