With 81% of patients preferring to use digital tools to manage their healthcare needs, building and maintaining patient trust through these digital platforms is essential for today’s healthcare providers.
Patient trust is a critical part of today’s healthcare experience—especially as technology evolves. With 81% of patients preferring to use digital tools to manage their healthcare needs, building and maintaining patient trust through these digital platforms is essential for today’s healthcare providers. Doing so fosters more positive patient relationships and ensures higher satisfaction levels.
Providers who want to understand how to build trust with patients across digital platforms simply need to implement the right tools and strategies. Let’s dive in.
Why Digital Experiences Are Critical for Establishing Patient Trust
With an increasing reliance on technology for managing health, today’s patients expect providers to provide seamless, transparent, and accessible interactions. It’s a deciding factor for patients; one survey found that 71% of patients consider digital platforms when selecting their healthcare providers.
A well-designed digital experience—one that is user-friendly, secure, and easily navigable—demonstrates a provider’s commitment to patient care and convenience. It also ensures patients have easy access to their health information, can communicate with providers, and can manage appointments easily.
Not only does a strong digital experience enhance patient satisfaction, but it also builds trust with patients by fostering a sense of security and reliability in how their provider handles their personal health data and addresses their needs.
6 Ways to Build Patient Trust Through Digital Experiences
Providers looking to improve patient trust using digital tools, platforms, and solutions can follow the strategies below.
1. Utilize Patient Portals and Be Available
Patient portals have become a cornerstone of modern healthcare. One study by the National Institutes of Health found that more than half of patients (52.8%) used a patient portal to access health information at least once a month. These secure online platforms give patients a fast, convenient way to access health records, review test results, and communicate with providers.
Providers who utilize patient portals effectively provide a convenient way for patients to manage their health and build trust through transparency and accessibility. Providers can also enhance trust by promptly addressing patient inquiries and messages. This shows that providers value patient engagement and are committed to their overall health.
2. Utilize Secure Digital Platforms
Last year, 160 million individuals were affected by healthcare security breaches. The increasing number of cybersecurity attacks has patients more concerned than ever about security and privacy—especially with their personal health data. Using secure digital platforms not only helps protect patient data from breaches and unauthorized access but also demonstrates a commitment to protecting patients’ privacy.
3. Focus on Digital Reviews
Digital reviews play a huge part in shaping patient perceptions. In fact, 75% of patients turn to online reviews as their first step when searching for a new physician. Providers should encourage satisfied patients to leave positive reviews on platforms like Google or Yelp. These reviews also help improve a facility’s online reputation and build patient-provider trust with prospective patients looking for a specific provider.
4. Enhance Your Online Presence
A strong online presence is vital for building patient trust. This includes maintaining an informative and user-friendly website, active social media profiles, and a regularly updated blog. Providing high-quality content and engaging interactions on these platforms showcases a provider’s expertise and is the perfect place for sharing valuable health information. It also helps build a deeper connection with patients, increasing trust.
5. Monitor on Online Listings
Just as providers should pay attention to their online reviews, they should also watch their online listings. Online listings are often the first impression a patient has of a practice. Ensuring information is accurate, up-to-date, and easy to find helps to establish credibility and trust among patients.
6. Streamline the Digital Journey
Finally, providers need to ensure the digital journey is as seamless as possible for patients. One survey of Americans found that 69% would consider switching providers for one that provided a better online experience. Offering and simplifying online options for scheduling appointments, telehealth visits, and accessing online services improves patient satisfaction and demonstrates a commitment to convenience and efficiency.
Enhance Patient Trust with Better Software
Building trust with patients through digital experiences isn’t just about implementing the latest technology—it’s about creating a transparent, secure, and patient-centered approach. That’s where RXNT comes in.
RXNT is a cloud-based medical office management platform that includes tools like Electronic Prescribing, Electronic Health Records, and Practice Management. Our comprehensive platform gives patients the tools to manage their healthcare in a single, secure platform. This enables providers to deliver fast, seamless digital experiences while enhancing patient trust in healthcare.
Ready to see what RXNT can do? Contact us to learn more.
