Engaging expecting parents during pregnancy is vital for improving health outcomes, building trust, and ensuring a positive experience. By leveraging advancements in technology and better understanding patient needs, healthcare providers can provide their patients with the best care experience. Here are five ways to increase patient engagement during pregnancy care.
1. Leverage Digital Tools for Communication
Effective communication is the cornerstone of patient engagement. Digital tools such as mobile apps and patient portals make it easier for expecting parents to stay informed and connected. These platforms can:
Send appointment reminders and follow-up notifications.
Provide educational content tailored to each stage of pregnancy.
Enable secure messaging between patients and healthcare providers.
Patient portals enable easy access to medical records, appointment scheduling, and lab results. Also, secure messaging platforms such as Spruce Health and OhMD make it convenient for patients to reach out to their healthcare providers with questions or concerns, fostering a sense of accessibility and trust.
2. Provide Personalized Educational Resources
Expecting parents often have many questions and concerns. Providing personalized educational resources can empower them to take an active role in their care. Consider offering:
Digital guides or a physical folder filled with pertinent information about pregnancy.
Webinars or virtual classes on prenatal topics.
Customized tips and health reminders through their patient portal or mobile apps.
When patients feel informed, they are more likely to engage actively with their healthcare plan.
3. Foster Emotional Connections Through Ultrasound Sharing
Ultrasound appointments are some of the most exciting moments for expecting families. By enabling patients to receive and share their ultrasound images digitally, providers can strengthen emotional connections. By using a technology like Sona, you can:
Deliver high-quality digital images directly to patients’ smartphones.
Allow patients to easily share these moments with loved ones.
Provide a keepsake that enhances the overall experience.
This not only delights patients but also increases their loyalty to your practice.
4. Embrace Telehealth for Convenience
Telehealth has become a game-changer in prenatal care, especially for busy parents or those in remote areas. Offering virtual consultations allows patients to:
Get quick answers to non-emergency questions.
Discuss test results and next steps without traveling.
Stay connected to their care team between in-person visits.
Between doctors’ appointments and ultrasounds, expecting parents have the need for so many care visits throughout their pregnancy. To add this option of convenience for them to support their busy schedules will help differentiate your practice.
5. Create a Supportive Community
Pregnancy can feel isolating, but building a sense of community can make all the difference. Providers can encourage engagement by:
Hosting online forums or social media groups for expecting parents.
Partnering with apps that allow patients to connect with others in similar stages of pregnancy.
Offering group prenatal classes or support groups, both in-person and virtual.
When patients feel part of a supportive network, they are more likely to engage with their care and your practice.
Increasing patient engagement during pregnancy care is not just about enhancing the patient experience; it’s also about improving outcomes. Engaged patients are more likely to follow care plans, attend appointments, and feel satisfied with their healthcare journey. Beyond these tangible benefits, engaged patients develop stronger relationships with their care teams, fostering trust and open communication. This trust can lead to better adherence to medical advice and a greater willingness to discuss concerns, which ultimately supports healthier pregnancies and positive birth outcomes.