MyChart Bedside Launches for UTMC Emergency Department

MyChart Bedside Launches for UTMC Emergency Department

Patients visiting The University of Toledo Medical Center Emergency Department will soon have a new way to stay informed and engaged throughout their care.

Beginning Tuesday, July 21, UTMC will launch MyChart Bedside in the Emergency Department, giving most patients access to real-time information about their visit through the MyChart app on their personal smartphone. Once a patient is admitted into the emergency department, their MyChart app automatically unlocks a specialized "Your Hospital Stay" view.

The enhanced mobile experience allows patients to follow their progress through the emergency department, view test results as they become available, review medications they have received or have been prescribed and see information about the members of their care team. Patients can also complete questionnaires, review and sign documents, receive educational materials and submit non-urgent requests, such as asking for a blanket or glass of water, directly through the app.

"We are rolling this out with the goal to give patients real-time access to their health information," said Julia Benfield, director of the UTMC Emergency Department. "It improves communication with their healthcare team and offers the opportunity for a better understanding of their care right from their own familiar mobile device."

Throughout their visit, patients can see updates on where they are in the treatment process, helping them better understand what is happening and what to expect next. After leaving the hospital, they can continue to access discharge instructions, follow-up information and other resources through MyChart.

UTMC staff will encourage eligible patients to use MyChart Bedside during their emergency department visit, with information available at registration and throughout the department to help patients access the feature.

Benfield said the technology is designed to make patients more active participants in their healthcare while increasing transparency throughout their visit.

"This will provide medication transparency, allowing patients to see what they are receiving and why," Benfield said. "We want them to have a greater sense of control over their healthcare experience."

Family members and caregivers with authorized proxy access to a patient's MyChart account can also stay informed throughout an emergency department visit by viewing the same information available to the patient.

The launch of MyChart Bedside reflects UTMC's continued commitment to improving the patient experience through technology that enhances communication, increases transparency and gives patients convenient access to the information they need throughout their care.