Patients who have a better understanding of their illnesses are likely to be healthier.

Technology such as social networking sites, e-mail, personal health records, home monitoring devices and patient portals have made communication between patient and doctor not only more convenient but also more meaningful.

Patients are able to do more independent research, making them better informed. They can compare costs, exchange information with other patients, and bring that knowledge back to their physicians. Technology even can allow physicians to monitor a patient’s health without a visit to the office, creating more time to see sicker patients.

This is from an article from the American Medical Association. Participatory technology includes email, personal health records, patient portals to allow access to records, social networking sites, home monitoring devices, and electronic medical records. The Joint Commission is encouraging patients to get more involved with their Speak Up! campaign which I highly recommend. Let’s all urge our patients to educate themselves about their diagnosis, their medications and the side effects, treatment plans and recommended diagnostic testing. We will all be better off for it.