Why does flexibility matter in a health system mobile app?
Healthcare changes quickly, and a mobile app needs to keep up. A flexible platform lets health systems add, change or turn off app features fast when circumstances shift. That way they can respond to sudden changes in demand for services and information, and patients come to see them as a trusted resource when things are uncertain.
How can health systems use push notifications to reach patients?
Push notifications let health systems send timely, targeted messages straight to patients’ phones. Starbucks uses geofencing to push time-sensitive offers and cut wait times, and health systems can use location and ZIP code targeting the same way. Health systems have used push notifications to share vaccine availability and instructions on where to seek care. They’ve also used them to announce operational changes, such as new visitor limits.
Which flexible app features help health systems respond to change?
Health systems have found value in mobile features that:
- Combine symptom checkers with wayfinding, so patients get triaged and then directed to the right care or screening location
- Show urgent care wait times and let patients reserve a spot in line
- Connect discharged patients and families with live support when they have questions about next steps in their care
Health systems that build agility into their digital tools are better positioned to meet patient expectations and keep patients coming back.
How did University Health use its mobile app during the COVID-19 pandemic?
University Health in San Antonio designed its mobile app to anticipate patients’ needs, which gave it a strong foundation when the pandemic hit. Within two weeks, the health system added:
- Real-time push notifications
- Virtual triage
- Up-to-date information on hours, protocols and wait times
- Access to Bexar County’s COVID-19 risk tracker
The app helped University Health become the go-to vaccine clinic in Bexar County, speeding up vaccine appointments and guiding patients through the vaccination process. More than 130,000 people downloaded the app, and daily use grew from about 100 sessions a day to 10,000.
“Having a fully featured mobile app in place proved instrumental to our pandemic response and our vaccine distribution strategy,” said Selene Mejia, digital marketing manager for University Health. “It enables University Health to establish a direct relational link with the community, advance vaccine administration in our region, and target vulnerable and underserved populations.”
What’s the takeaway for health systems planning a mobile strategy?
Choose a platform built to adapt. A flexible mobile app helps health systems meet patients where they are, stay connected beyond the point of care, and respond quickly when needs change. See how Gozio’s Mobile Experience Platform works.
