ATHENAHEALTH PORTAL
AthenaHealth
Patient Portal
Our AthenaHealth patient portal is designed to be a convenient tool for enhancing communication and streamlining non-urgent medical tasks. However we felt it was important to emphasize how to use the portal safely. By understanding the appropriate uses and limitations of the platform, you can maximize its benefits and contribute to a more efficient healthcare experience.
Patient Portal Dos & Don'ts
Do:
Communicate Effectively: Use the portal to send brief, non-urgent messages to your care team. Think of it like texting, for simple transactions like confirming appointments, requesting medication refills or clarifying medication doses.
Be Patient: Patient portals are NOT monitored 24/7. Allow sufficient time (e.g., 72 hours) for a response to your portal message, as healthcare providers are managing a heavy workload. Never send portal messages about an acute illness or urgent medical issue!
Send Documents: The portal messaging has an upload feature. This can be used to send *school/sports/camp forms for completion. Make sure the patient's name and date of birth are written on each form. The completed forms will be sent back via the portal under 'Lab results/Instructions to school'. Allow 48-72 hours. *you will be billed a $15 fee for each set of forms.
Don't:
Don't use the portal for urgent matters or emergencies: If you have an urgent medical concern, call the office between 8am-4:30pm on weekdays, our afterhours service 443-481-3061 or 911 immediately.
Don't send multiple messages for the same issue: Sending repeated requests for the same thing can slow down the system and create confusion.
Don't attempt to interpret test results on your own: Allow your doctor or a member of the care team to explain the results to avoid unnecessary anxiety or misinterpretations.
Don't expect your doctor to be the sole recipient of every message: Many messages can be handled by other members of the care team, who can address logistical questions or other routine inquiries, according to the American Medical Association.
Don't misinterpret brevity as a lack of concern: Doctors are busy, and concise responses are not indicative of a lack of care.
Don't be afraid to schedule an in-person appointment if needed: Complex medical questions are often best addressed during a dedicated appointment, whether in person or via telehealth.