5 Strategies for Introducing New Technologies to Patients

1. 5 Strategies for Introducing New Technologies to Patients Healthcare practitioners have the responsibility of updating their knowledge and skillsets to meet the changing needs of patients. With the constant evolution of care, it becomes the responsibility of practitioners to also update their systems in order to provide better services. Technology is ever more critical when it comes to healthcare, helping streamline processes while reducing errors. In the world of physical therapy, new technologies like therapy scheduling software solutions and practice management software are changing the way practitioners interact with patients. The best ​physical therapy software can enable practitioners to simplify many of the tedious administrative tasks that they must accomplish before they can face patients and provide them the care they need. These solutions can aggregate patient information so practitioners can have immediate access to the data they require to provide proper recommendations and treatments to the patient. But while it is relatively easy for practitioners to adapt to new technologies and provide ample training to their staff before rolling out new systems, getting patients onboard is another matter. It’s infinitely more challenging to introduce patients to new ways of doing things—especially because patients have varied levels of tech savvy. Even with the ubiquity of modern technology, some may still not be as accustomed to using smartphones, let alone new software systems that support therapy practices. So how do you start? The key is to get patients uptospeed with new technologies you plan on implementing and choosing systems that will make sense to them.

2. Here are some practical insights to consider when considering a switch to brand-new physical therapy software or perhaps implementing new ways of appointment-setting with therapy scheduling software: 1.​​Think about ease of use. When determining the type of new technologies to bring into your practice, don’t get too caught up with price and toolsets. While these are critical points of discussion, what’s more important is the system’s ease of use. If the system is too hard to learn, it will only hamper your productivity and frustrate your patients. Easy-to-use technologies are friendlier to users who may not be as quick to learn new technologies as those who are already familiar with similar innovations. Look for solutions that have intuitive interfaces and those that resemble practices or systems that have, for the longest time, been employed in your office. If a complete change is inevitable, look for systems that are designed to make patient experience as seamless as possible. Avoid confusing interfaces that may lead to frustrations and loss of business. 2.​​Let patients know why the change or the switch is inevitable. Patients will be more accepting of the transition when they know how these changes can benefit them. So before you even acquire the new technology, give them a heads-up. Sell the concept to them in a manner that will make them want to get on board the change. Let them know how easy their life will be with your new therapy scheduling software and answer all their questions regarding the change. Make it clear that the new system will ultimately allow you to give them a better quality of service. 3.​​Give them time to ease into the new norm. Don’t rush their learning curve and give them alternative options that will help them ease into the transition. Help them as much as you can so that your new technology won’t defeat its own purpose of innovation. Help them understand that change is good and new technology will only make their therapy experiences more meaningful. 4.​​Personalize your approach. Introducing new technology to your patients can be tricky. But it’s certainly possible. The key is making them take ownership of the change and personalizing the experience as much as you can, so you can reinforce their desire to learn. You may use videos, dashboards, tutorials, and other kinds of messaging to help them get a knack of the new technology. 5.​​Engage your entire community.

3. Make the learning curve easier for your patients by engaging everyone—from your administrative staff to your practitioners, your patients, and their caregivers. If you need help getting your patients onboard your new ​therapy scheduling software​, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from your software provider. Chances are, they have information and how-to materials available that you can pass on to your patients.