Using the Power of Patient-Centricity to Reshape Your Private Practice

With “Dr. Google” available on everyone’s mobile device,  patients are no longer passive recipients of care; they're demanding a more active role in their well-being, sometimes to a fault. This rise of patient-centered care presents both challenges and opportunities for private practice owners. Understanding this evolving dynamic is crucial for your practice's success.

Why the Power Shift?

Several factors contribute to the rise of patient-centrality. The internet empowers patients with access to a wealth of information both true and false about their conditions and treatment options. Additionally, a 2022 report by Accenture found that 83% of patients expect healthcare providers to involve them in treatment decisions [1]. This signifies a growing desire for partnership and personalized care.

The Impact on Private Practices:

The patient-centric model presents both challenges and opportunities for private practices:

• Challenges:
  
  
• Increased Patient Expectations: Patients may come to appointments with specific requests or questions based on online research.
• Time Constraints: Effectively engaging with patients and tailoring care plans demands more time from doctors, potentially impacting appointment schedules.
• Shifting Reimbursement Models: Payer models might shift towards rewarding patient engagement and preventive care, requiring practices to adapt.
• Opportunities:
  
  
• Enhanced Patient Satisfaction & Loyalty: A 2020 study in BMC Health Services Research found that patient-centered care leads to higher patient satisfaction and reduces the likelihood of switching providers [2]. This translates to a more stable patient base for your practice.
• Improved Clinical Outcomes: Shared decision-making can lead to better medication adherence and treatment outcomes for chronic conditions [3].
• Differentiation in a Competitive Market: By embracing patient-centered care, you can differentiate your practice and attract patients seeking a more personalized and collaborative approach.

Strategies for Patient-Centric Success:

Here are some strategies to embrace patient-centered care and thrive in the evolving landscape:

• Invest in Patient Education: Offer educational resources on your website or through patient portals. This empowers patients and facilitates informed discussions during appointments.
• Embrace Technology: Utilize online patient portals that allow patients to access their records, schedule appointments, and communicate with you securely.
• Prioritize Active Listening: Actively listen to patient concerns and questions during consultations. Encourage open communication and address any anxieties or doubts.
• Practice Shared Decision-Making: Present various treatment options to patients, outlining the benefits and risks. Work collaboratively to determine the best course of action based on individual needs and preferences.
• Invest in Staff Training: Train your staff on patient-centered communication skills to ensure a positive and collaborative experience for all patients.
• Hire Live Healthcare VAs: Utilize live healthcare VAs, like those offered by Doc Assist Me, to remove the most time consuming tasks from your full time staff. Freeing them up to be patient focused. 

The Future of Healthcare:

The future of healthcare lies in partnership. By embracing patient-centered care, you can empower your patients and create a thriving practice that fosters optimal health outcomes and long-term patient relationships. Remember, the patient is no longer a passive participant; they are the CEO of their health journey. Guide them, inform them, and empower them – together, you can redefine healthcare delivery.

Start Your Patient-Centric Journey:

The road to patient-centered care is continuous. Implement these strategies, gather patient feedback, and refine your approach to create a healthcare experience that puts your patients' well-being at the forefront.

Sources:

[1] Accenture. (2022, February). The Future of Healthcare: Patient-Centricity Redefined. https://www.accenture.com/content/dam/accenture/final/a-com-migration/r3-3/pdf/pdf-178/accenture-digital-health-technology-vision-2022.pdf [2] Légaré, F., Turcotte, S., Stacey, D., & Bombardier, C. (2020). Patient-centered care and healthcare service use: A systematic review. BMC Health Services Research, 20(1), 1000. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7934513/ [3] Stacey, D., Légaré, F., Lewis, S., Boyd, H., & Bombardier, C. (2017). Shared decision-making about treatment options for cancer: A systematic review of quantitative studies on patient outcomes. BMJ Open, 7(6), e014774. https://ebm.bmj.com/content/28/4/213