Onboarding patients effectively is crucial for building strong patient relationships, which in turn leads to numerous benefits for both the patient and the medical practice. A well-executed onboarding process fosters trust and engagement, laying the foundation for better communication and collaboration throughout the patient's healthcare journey.

Research has shown that strong patient-provider relationships contribute to increased treatment adherence, with patients who feel connected to their healthcare provider being 19% more likely to follow their treatment plans (1). This increased compliance results in improved patient outcomes, as patients who adhere to their treatment regimens are more likely to experience positive health benefits (2).

Moreover, satisfied patients are less likely to switch providers. A study conducted by the AMA found that 65% of patients who reported high satisfaction with their healthcare provider had stayed with the same practice for over five years (3). Retaining patients not only improves the practice's financial stability but also fosters long-term patient relationships that can lead to better health outcomes.

Successful patient onboarding is a key factor in establishing positive patient-provider relationships. By effectively onboarding patients, healthcare providers can expect increased treatment compliance, improved patient outcomes, and a stable, satisfied patient base that contributes to the overall success of the practice.

Storyline automates successful patient onboarding.

Start with a Patient Onboarding Template from the Library and modify it fit your needs keeping mind these themes.

1: Welcome and Introduction

• Personalized welcome message: Begin the onboarding process with a personalized welcome message addressing the patient by their first name to make them feel special and valued. 
• Introduction video: Include a brief video introduction from the clinic's lead physician or healthcare provider to build trust and establish a personal connection with the patient. The video should cover essential information about the clinic and its services.
• Overview of the onboarding process: Provide a clear and concise outline of the steps involved in the onboarding process, ensuring that the patient knows what to expect and can navigate the process with ease.

2: Gathering Patient Information

• Basic patient information form: You can do this with Storyline or keep your existing process. No one loves to fill out forms.

• Medical history questionnaire: Again, Storyline gives you options here.

• Lifestyle and preferences questions: This one's important but mostly overlooked. Asking the patient makes them a partner in their care and can help you personalize your approach and ensure that the patient feels heard and understood.

3: Patient Education and Next Steps

• Educational content: Share relevant educational materials (e.g., articles, videos) with the patient, tailored to their specific needs and concerns. This content should be easy to understand and help the patient feel informed and empowered about their healthcare journey.

• Clinic policies and procedures: Provide the patient with an overview of the clinic's policies, procedures, and any required paperwork they need to complete. This will ensure that the patient is aware of their responsibilities and can adhere to the clinic's guidelines.

• Scheduling the first appointment: Assist the patient in scheduling their first appointment with the healthcare provider. Offer multiple options for appointment times and allow the patient to choose the most convenient option for them. This will help to establish a positive relationship between the patient and the clinic from the outset.

• Follow-up communication: After the patient has completed the onboarding process, send a personalized follow-up email or text message to thank them and provide any necessary reminders or additional information.
• Virtual tour of the clinic: Include a brief virtual tour of the clinic, showcasing the facilities and introducing key staff members. This will help the patient to familiarize themselves with the clinic environment and feel more comfortable during their first visit.
  
  

Sources:

1. DiMatteo, M. R. (2004). Variations in patients' adherence to medical recommendations: a quantitative review of 50 years of research. Medical Care, 42(3), 200-209.
2. World Health Organization. (2003). Adherence to long-term therapies: evidence for action.