By John Coomer, Practice Administrator
Technology and the internet impact healthcare in many ways. Ponderosa Pediatrics works hard to embrace new technologies and give patients opportunities to access information and research various health related issues.
Our website, www.ponderosapediatrics.com, contains links to various sources of reliable health related information. Sources like the American Academy of Pediatrics, Mayo Clinic, Centers for Disease Control and WebMD offer reliable and proven information widely accepted by pediatricians nationwide. However, this information cannot replace the training, expertise and experience offered by licensed clinicians and should never be used in lieu of medical care and doctor’s attention. These sources are interesting reads and provide good general information, but outside the context of doctors, could prove wrong and have serious consequence.
The website also offers information about providers, policy, hours and appointments, patient forms, our blog where we publish all articles (including this one), and the ability to contact us for general information. Our Facebook page is great for lighter discussions, blog posts, contests and general information. Per federal law, we cannot publish any private or protected medical information on any unsecure media, including our website, email, and Facebook.
To answer the need for secure communication, Ponderosa Pediatrics now has a secure patient login system accessible from ponderosapediatrics.com. Patients need to enable an account through our office, and they can log in to access and/or discuss protected patient information. Currently, patients (parents) can review and print medical records, immunization records, appointment history, statements, etc. Those with accounts established also receive appointment verification via email, and receive notices when we publish protected information to their accounts. They can send messages (not directly to providers yet, however), request appointments, and update demographic information. Shortly, they will be able complete medical history and screening information, new patient forms and pay bills online.
While we have not “formally” rolled these capabilities out as we are working the bugs out, the system is online and active. Several hundred parents have logged on and have provided feedback. Patients interested in learning more should call the office or send an email (without divulging protected health information).
Please feel free to post general questions on the Ponderosa Pediatrics Facebook page or comment on this article at www.ponderosapediatrics.com.
