AMA suggests ways to encourage use of patient portals

(HealthDay)—Measures can be taken to encourage patients to use patient portals to help ensure practices meet current Stage 2 meaningful use requirements, according to an article published by the American Medical Association (AMA).

Physicians must provide online access to at least one-half of their patients in order to meet current Stage 2 requirements, with health information being made available to the patient within four business days of becoming available to the physician. According to the current standard, at least 5 percent of patients must use this service, although this standard may be loosened.

Several measures can be taken to encourage patients to use the portal to access their data. These include training staff on how the portal works, what data are available, and how to connect patients. The portal should be promoted by posting signs in the office and providing fliers on portal benefits. Patients should be encouraged to view or download their health information. Following a patient visit, having a staff member show patients how to set up an account and access data at a designated computer station or tablet in a public area of the office can encourage patients to use the portal.

"The AMA continues to seek less restrictive meaningful use requirements and continues to advocate for changes to the program," according to the article.