If they open the message, it will show up on the portal as read, and then if you archive that it will be in the archive section for 6 months for review on the server at Updox as I understand it. Who really reads it? It would have to be someone who knows the password and have access to the patient's email account, probably more targeted than regular mail.
I think all you can prove is if the message is sent and if it is opened up or not by the patient. We set the interval at one week if the message is not opened by the patient, then we are notified in the Updox portal.
Usually, I send results electronically that are normal or stable or easily understandable. Anything that is abnormal, will usually need a phone call and usually an appointment for face to face.
The portal is great for lab results printed from Quest, with a letter generated in AC attached, a few days before visit, even if abnormals are present.
Also great for attaching the templated letter for normal pap or mammogram results attached to the actual report.
The letter to recommend a 6 month f/u mammo could be attached with the actual abnormal mammogram report, and a reminder in AC to have your nurse order a 6 month f/u mammo as a backup. However, I usually call or have my nurse call in addition to doing this to avoid any mess up. This is better than just a phone call because patients can read it in black and white as well as a friendly voice over the phone, and takes very little time to do this extra step electronically.
Also, after an office visit, anything ordered as discussed such as xray, HIDA, MRI etc. will be sent (with short letter) as soon as I get results, and if abnormal, usually a visit afterwards, but patient can read results on portal before f/u visit to think about and discuss at visit. If results normal, the f/u is not necessary.
I think the portal has served a nice niche for getting out results lightning speed and very much appreciated by patients. I would argue if used properly, much better than the old snail mail or phone by itself, in some instances.
I have a husband and wife both blind and the portal has been quite helpful for them since their sighted relative moved away. Also, a deaf patient has found it extremely helpful to communicate in this fashion.
Like any mode of transmitting patient information, it has its positives and negatives, so am still trying to learn along the way.
However, all of these electronic transmittals are documented and kept in AC as part of the permanent record.
