Digital Minute: MyChart- Transforming Care, Access, and Communication

By Walter Reiling, MD, system chief medical information officer, Premier Health; and Mandy Via, system director of access, referral management, and telehealth, Premier Health

In an increasingly digital world, health care systems are leveraging technology to improve patient outcomes, streamline operations, and enhance the overall care experience. At Premier Health, MyChart is a leading tool that benefits patients and health care professionals.

MyChart provides patients with 24/7 access to their medical records, appointment scheduling, test results, and treatment plans. This transparency is a game-changer. Patients no longer need to wait days or weeks for test results or rely on phone calls to access critical information. Instead, they can log in and view updates in real-time. This immediate access fosters a sense of empowerment, enabling patients to better understand their health and make informed decisions.

For individuals managing chronic illnesses or complex medical conditions, having a centralized hub for medical history, medication lists, and lab results is invaluable. It reduces confusion, enhances communication with the health care team, and ensures continuity of care across multiple specialists.

We witness a steady rise in MyChart activations and user engagement each year. In 2024 alone, MyChart recorded more than 11 million logins—double the number from 2023. This significant growth underscores our patients' increasing reliance on digital health care solutions, seamlessly integrating them into their daily lives as with other digital services.

We recently hosted an Epic Immersion visit centered on MyChart. A team from Epic collaborated with various Premier Health stakeholders and spent time onsite at multiple practices and hospitals to assess current MyChart usage and gather direct feedback. With more than 20 participants, the visit provided an opportunity for hands-on guidance and real-time user input. This collaboration resulted in a comprehensive plan that will drive the evolution of MyChart in 2025.

Every patient’s story is unique, and MyChart provides a personalized experience that resonates with what matters most to them. By fostering this connection, we empower patients on their health care journey, inspiring better health outcomes—wherever they may be.

Back to the December 2024 issue of Premier Pulse