Hospitals and medical institutions are competing for patients. In a tough economy, elective
procedures are ignored and even covered medical procedures may be put on hold due to higher and higher co-pays and lower insurance coverage. Medical facilities are forced to compete for a larger share of a smaller pool of medical expenditures.
What may sway a patient to chose one hospital over another? Is it due to proximity or perceived level of care? An argument that suggests the latter is more weighty would be supported by the evidence. Hospitals are subject to surveys and ratings which take into account factors including the outcome of procedures. One huge factor in these ratings is the exit survey that patients are given at the conclusion of the stay.
Simple things can make a big difference in how the patient responds to the survey. Something as simple as giving the patient a quality imprinted portfolio can make the difference in an “ok” rating and a “good” or “great” rating.
Organized records for hospital stays can be a challenge. The discharge papers, records of services, health insurance information can be daunting. Typically when someone has had a procedure or surgery, they are somewhat overwhelmed and may still experience residual anesthesia. Having a handy place to keep this information is very helpful, and the likelihood is that the patient will put this file in a safe place, assuring longevity of the investment.
Discharge papers, if given to the patient in an organized package can change the perception of the value of the care. A file folder, imprinted with the Health Care system logo can long outlast the hospital stay and be the repository of medical information for years to come.
Children’s birth information and record in a portfolio can be the cherished storage point for vaccination records, checkup reports and ongoing medical documents. The hospital can gain consumer loyalty as well as improved care scores to improve ratings. Having one place to store medical documents is important.
Some types of records that should be maintained include:
- Emergency names and numbers
- Doctor information including names, phone numbers
- Health insurance information, phone numbers and email for coverage
- Prescriptions, medications and supplement information
- Record of allergies
- Medical record and family medical history
- Records of past surgeries, implants
- Eye records, dental records
- Other health related information
In the case of emergency, the portfolio or accordion file with medical information will be a critical place for fast information when time is of the essence. Without having to hunt for information, caregivers and family has the reassurance of enabling emergency care with the knowledge of any factors that could be important. And of course, having the hospital name in a place with these records is a reminder of the excellent care that was given at a time when care may be needed again.
