Better Calls, Better Care: Communication Hacks for Healthcare

In this episode of Direct Line, Kurt Pontello, Channel Manager at Techmode, delves into the pressing challenges of healthcare communication. Kurt explains how streamlined call queues and after-hours call routing can improve patient care by connecting them to the right healthcare professionals without unnecessary delays. He highlights the importance of first-call resolution in building trust and reducing frustration for patients during critical times.

Kurt discusses the role of multi-channel communication in modern healthcare. From voice and SMS to video calls and web chat, these tools empower healthcare teams to offer personalized care while meeting the expectations of diverse patient demographics. He emphasizes how solutions like callback options and real-time queue updates enhance the experience for both patients and staff.

This episode also explores Techmode’s innovative tools that safeguard staff privacy and provide actionable insights through detailed reporting. By leveraging these solutions, healthcare providers can optimize operations, reduce stress, and focus on delivering exceptional care.

Key Insights

Streamlined Call Queues for Enhanced After-Hours Care

Kurt Pontello shares how call queues can improve after-hours patient care in the healthcare industry. By creating specialized call routing systems, healthcare providers can ensure that patients connect directly with the appropriate doctor or on-call professional. Pontello emphasizes the importance of first-call resolution, which reduces patient frustration and increases efficiency for medical teams. These call queues allow for features like callback options, queue position updates, and masked numbers to protect doctors’ privacy. This system not only shortens wait times but also improves the overall patient experience during critical or stressful moments.

 

Multi-Channel Communication for Modern Healthcare

Pontello highlights the growing need for multi-channel communication in healthcare to meet patients’ evolving expectations. Techmode’s tools offer integrated voice, SMS, video calls, and web chat to create a seamless communication experience. Younger patients prefer texting and web chat for initial interactions, while video calls allow for more personalized care, such as mental health consultations. These features provide convenience and accessibility, ensuring patients can engage with healthcare providers in ways that suit their needs. Unified communication platforms help healthcare teams stay connected and offer flexible, patient-centered care.

 

Using Reporting Tools to Optimize Patient Support

Techmode’s reporting tools offer actionable insights that help healthcare managers improve operations. Pontello explains how detailed call analytics can identify peak call times, enabling better staff scheduling and resource allocation. Reports also track abandoned calls, providing opportunities to follow up with patients who may have been unable to connect. By leveraging these data-driven insights, healthcare providers can reduce wait times, improve response rates, and ultimately enhance patient satisfaction. These tools empower managers to make informed decisions and create a more efficient workflow for their teams.