However, a patient portal can also help a practice by improving its overall productivity and efficiency. A patient portal also increases communication with patients, which can ultimately improve their safety. Portals that are well-organized and easy to use give patients round-the-clock access and help patients better adhere to treatment plans.

For its part, LSS Data Systems offers a patient portal that is intuitive and secure. The portal gives patients the ability to access portions of their medical records through the clinic’s website. What a patient can access is determined by the clinic. It can be limited to lab results and medications or it can include a list of medical problems, vital signs and allergies.The portal also allows secure communications between patients and their care providers.

LSS’ portal can be configured to offer patients the ability to pay their bill via credit card or Paypal. Though the portal patients can also update their contact information, set/edit future appointments, request prescription refill, add medications, pay bills, and fill-out pre- appointment paperwork information.

As more doctors realize the benefits of patient portals, more companies are offering their own version. IBM recently unveiled its new patient portal, which is called the IBM Patient Empowerment System. The portal will significantly expand the sources patients can access data from, including third-party health portals, hospital electronic medical record systems, sensors, and home devices for monitoring health conditions. Additionally, IBM’s system will offer providers a way to send alerts, recommendations and interactive coaching to their patients.