Electronic access to personal medical information is increasingly prevalent. Platforms enabling patients to monitor and manage their health data are becoming commonplace within healthcare systems. These systems typically provide a secure portal for viewing test results, scheduling appointments, requesting prescription refills, and communicating with healthcare providers. An example would be a hospital implementing a system whereby patients can track their lab results and upcoming appointments through a dedicated online interface.
The importance of these patient portals lies in their ability to empower individuals to take a more active role in their own healthcare. Benefits include improved communication between patients and providers, enhanced medication adherence, and a greater understanding of one’s health status. Historically, accessing medical records required direct contact with healthcare providers and often involved a significant waiting period. The advent of electronic patient portals streamlines this process, promoting efficiency and accessibility.