Three keys to successful multitherapy resupply

In an earlier blog, we covered the challenges of multitherapy resupply. Those challenges include the need to work with several providers who each have their own protocols, treatment goals and communication systems, making it difficult for patients to manage their therapy. Sharing information can also be difficult, and can result in misalignment of care that could affect treatment outcomes. And finally, if patients need supplies for more than one health condition, they may need to work with different HMEs due to specialization, adding yet another layer of complexity to their care.

Given these challenges, what are some strategies we can use for more effective multitherapy resupply? I’ll outline three ways you can help your patients manage their multitherapy needs to help them meet their health goals.

The first cornerstone of effective multitherapy management is a timeline. In some settings this is called a care plan, but it simply amounts to creating a schedule that accounts for refills, appointments and adjustments. Some treatment examples where this is key would be for sleep therapy or changing diabetic treatment if a patient loses weight.

Right now in resupply, this process is still largely paper based. Using automation to track therapies, calendar reminders, payments and other key information can help create a digital roadmap for each patient as they move through their therapy needs. Many of the challenges outlined in the previous blog are related to the different requirements for different types of therapy. But if everything is clearly laid out up front, it’s easier to be proactive to make sure patients always have what they need.

Using technology to automate these processes also lets your staff focus where they’re needed, specifically on managing exceptions and caring for patients. Implementing technology such as resupply software or e-prescribe tools helps reduce manual steps and move the patient from setting to setting without interruption. Many platforms offer providers the option to automate a specific part of their work or the entire workflow.

Another key tool in managing multitherapy resupply is your EHR. It can help you coordinate care and ensure patients receive necessary treatments without gaps in therapy. Having your EHR integrated with your billing system makes it easier to send e-prescriptions for electronic approvals and signatures, eliminating time-consuming faxes or calls, which means your staff can work more efficiently and your patients get their supplies more promptly.

Effective communication with healthcare providers is the third key. It’s vitally important because if we don’t have a complete picture of what’s going on with our patients, we can’t ensure their therapy will be effective. Having easy, convenient communication channels can make a difference. Are you following up with patients in person or virtually? Do you have the capability to send them a text to ask how therapy is going? Can your patients easily contact you in case of a refill delay or issues with an insurance claim? Patients increasingly expect and prefer secure, digital communication tools that give them the flexibility to contact you or respond to your questions at their convenience. What’s more, some providers using these kinds of tools have seen increased adherence to therapy and improved patient satisfaction.