Effect of Patient Portal Utilization on Patient Experience Among Hospitalized Adult Patients on an Orthopedic Surgical Unit.

Abstract

This project aimed to evaluate the effect of patient portal utilization on patient experience and communication with care teams among hospitalized inpatients. Patients (n = 33) from an adult, 16-bed inpatient floor at an academic, level I trauma center completed a Web-based survey regarding their experience with a patient portal following training by medical students. Survey responses indicated a favorable perception of the portal. Most patients reported improved communication with healthcare providers and enhanced understanding of medications. The majority found the portal easy to navigate and expressed user satisfaction. The patient portal facilitated improved communication with care teams and a better understanding of medical management among patients. The study highlighted the importance of raising awareness about patient portal usage for inpatients. Health providers can foster improved communication, engagement, and medication education among hospitalized patients by promoting health information technology adoption.