North Big Horn clinic appointment reminder system coming soon

North Big Horn Hospital Clinic is about to introduce a new system that will make remembering appointments a lot easier for patients. The automated appointment reminder system offered by a company called Artera is the same system used successfully by Billings Clinic.

Clinic Registration Supervisor Jennifer Wambeke said the new system is being implemented for the convenience of patients. It will also make it easier and more efficient for staff to issue reminders or to notify patients if there has been an unexpected change, like a change in a provider’s schedule. She explained that the type of contact used will be based on the preferred contact method patients already designated in the system, but patients shouldn’t be surprised if they are asked to update their preferred method of contact during their next visit. Options for receiving reminders will include by telephone, text or email.

Wambeke said the “go-live” date for the new system should take place sometime in the next few weeks. Once the exact date has been set, she said, it will most likely be announced in the Lovell Chronicle and on Facebook.

“We just want patients to know it’s coming and ask for patience, while we’re still learning the new system,” she said. “We expect it to be really good for patients.”

Wambeke said she anticipates the system will have the capability of texting or emailing instructions in advance of surgical procedures at some point. Currently, patients receive these instructions by U.S. mail.

The Artera company website notes that this gentle reminder system has many benefits including reducing no-shows and improving scheduling, thereby ensuring patients get the care they need. Currently, the reception staff calls patients when reminders are necessary. Wambeke said the automated system is expected to be much quicker and more efficient for both staff and patients.