Pros: FollowMyHealth allows instant and secure access to a patient’s universal health record. For physicians, FollowMyHealth streamlines office administration tasks such as appointment reminders, online bill payments and medical history form submissions. Physicians can also consult online through the portal with the information secured by top of the line encryption methods. Patients can view the latest results of health tests and notes provided by their physicians.

Cons: Physicians need to use the FollowMyHealth software program in order for patients to communicate through the program. A free trial is not available to interested parties. Instead, users can view webinars to learn about the software or request a free personalized demonstration. The subscriber’s computer system must meet certain requirements to access any of the information provided through FollowMyHealth. Minimum system requirements include Microsoft Silverlight installation, a Windows Passport Live ID and a compatible version of Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Mozilla FireFox or Safari.

The Bottomline: As long as all system requirements are met, FollowMyHealth can offer a chance for patients and providers to share information to better manage their health. The program is easy to use and streamlines the operations of clinical practices.

Editor’s Rating:

Reviewed on January 5, 2012

Summary:
Patients and providers alike benefit from the features of FollowMyHealth. An easy to navigate homepage allows users to exchange information while also being able to view real-time updates. Improved health practices are likely as patients are not only sent appointment reminders, but also notifications of follow-up and preventative care practices.



Features:
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Appointment Requests
Patients can make an appointment with their doctors without the need to phone into the office. Under the “My Doctors” tab, an option will be available to “Request Appointment.” Users are given the opportunity to choose their availability. A message will be sent through the portal once the appointment has been scheduled.

Messaging Capabilities
Providers and patients make private exchanges through the “Messages” option on FollowMyHealth. Simply select the link under the user’s name and compose and send the message.

Multiple Practice Management
Users connect with all of their doctors and clinics on a single page through FollowMyHealth. Under the “Connections” tab, patients send a request to be added to the organization. A search option allows users to type in the name of the organization to find program participants and sends an approval request to the doctor’s office.

Billing Duties
For overloaded medical billing offices, FollowMyHealth can make collections of current and past due payments streamlined. Accounting histories are viewable and allow patients to review account balances and obtain a record of payments on their account.



My Health Overview
In the “My Health” section of the program, users peek at their clinical summaries and chart their medical conditions. Medical information available to users include chart notes, list of prescription medications, office visit records and background on current and past medical conditions.

Customization
Both patients and providers are offered customization options on FollowMyHealth. Logos and photos can be uploaded to individual sites. Physicians can also customize what services are offered to their patients.

Sharing of Health Information
With the patient’s permission, healthcare providers are allowed to exchange messages and notes about the patient’s condition through FollowMyHealth. Patient’s electronic records can also be released to public health registries.