Send messages to patients
This guide provides step-by-step instructions and an overview of the message-sending feature available to clinicians in Careportal. This feature allows you to send reminders and updates to patients, helping them stay on track with their treatment and testing plans.
The message-sending feature enables healthcare providers to send reminders and updates to patients for tasks such as:
- Completing requested tests (e.g., spirometry, reversibility tests, treatment checks).
- Following up on results.
- Retaking tests if needed.
- Staying in touch with the clinic for further assistance.
Eligibility
All clinicians signed into the Careportal can use this feature for patients connected to their clinic.
How it Works
Messages are sent as SMS notifications, prompting patients to log in to the AsthmaTuner app to view the full message. The initial SMS contains no personal or detailed information—this ensures patient data privacy and compliance with regulations.
Step 1: Sign in
Log into Careportal with your credentials.
Step 2: Choose patients
You can send messages in two ways:
- From patient lists:
- Select one or multiple patients from any patient list.
- Click the “Send Message” button.
- From an individual patient profile:
- Navigate to the patient’s profile.
- Click the “Send Message” button.
Step 3: Select a template
- Choose a pre-written message template that best fits your need. Templates include reminders for tests, requests to contact the clinic, or commendations for regular testing.
- Messages are available in multiple languages.
Step 4: Send the message
- Review your selection and confirm.The message is sent as an SMS notification to the patient, prompting them to check the AsthmaTuner app for details.
Templates
- No customization is available to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements.
Privacy
- SMS notifications contain no personal or sensitive information.
- Patients can view the full message only after logging into the AsthmaTuner app.
Communication history
Clinicians can see when each message was last sent to a patient and which provider sent it.
Patient requirements
- Patients must have a registered phone number to receive SMS messages. This can be added by:
- The patient themselves in the AsthmaTuner app.
- Clinicians on the patient information page in Careportal.
- Patients consent to receiving communication when they accept the clinic invitation in the app.
- There is no opt-out option for these messages.
Message limits
There are no restrictions on how many messages you can send per patient or day.
Replies and Read receipts
- Patients cannot reply to messages. They are directed to the contact information for their clinician in the app.
- Clinicians cannot see if a message has been received or read.
What should I do if a patient does not receive messages?
Ensure that the patient’s phone number is registered and accurate in their profile. You can update this information in the patient’s detail page in Careportal.
Can I customize message templates?
No, templates are pre-written to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
How do patients view the full message?
Patients receive an SMS prompting them to log into the AsthmaTuner app, where they can view the complete message content.
Can I schedule messages to be sent at a later time?
No, the SMS feature currently does not support message scheduling.
Is there a way to track if a patient has read the message?
No, read receipts are not available. Patients are advised to contact their clinician if they have questions or concerns.
