In the dynamic landscape of modern healthcare, efficient communication is paramount to the success, especially in terms of capitalizing the hours in a day. Neither providers nor patients have time to waste, so as the demand for streamlined patient care and administrative processes continues to rise, healthcare providers are turning to SMS messaging to streamline their scheduling communication. The advantages are manifold, ranging from the immediacy and ubiquity of text messages to their simplicity and accessibility.

This powerful tool facilitates seamless appointment scheduling, medication reminders, and crucial updates, enhancing patient engagement and satisfaction. Here are the best reasons to get started with SMS for scheduling at your office. We’ve even included sample verbiage.

1. Appointment Reminders

One of the most common uses of SMS in healthcare practices is sending appointment reminders. It’s a practical way to reduce no-shows and last-minute cancellations. With a simple text reminder, you can ensure your patients keep their appointments.

Hey [name], you have an appointment scheduled for [date] at [time]. Please arrive 15 minutes early or reply RESCHEDULE to this message.

2. Direct Scheduling

Texting makes the process of scheduling or rescheduling appointments simpler and more efficient. Patients can easily confirm their availability or reschedule if necessary, straight from their mobile phones.

We’re happy to get your appointment rescheduled. How does [date] at [time] work? Reply YES to confirm or call us at [phone] to set a new time. 

3. Recall Appointments

Regular check-ups are vital to physical and oral health. You can use SMS to remind your patients when it’s time for their next check-up or cleaning.

Hey [name]! Believe it or not it’s been 6 months since your last appointment. Let’s set up your next one today. Shoot a text or call [phone].

4. Pre-appointment Instructions

Before certain procedures, patients might need to prepare in some way, such as fasting. Sending these instructions via SMS ensures they are well-prepared for their appointment.

Good morning! Your [procedure type] is a week away. You can help it go much smoother with proper prep. Here are some recommendations from us: [link]

5. Aftercare Instructions

After a procedure, you can send aftercare instructions or tips via SMS. This will help your patients take proper care of themselves post-treatment.

Thanks for trusting us with your care today. We hope recovery goes quickly and smoothly. Take these steps to assure that. [link to aftercare instructions]

6. Payment Reminders

Do you have patients with outstanding bills? Gentle reminders through SMS can encourage them to settle their accounts promptly.

Hey [name], you have an outstanding balance we’d love to help you settle. Call us at [phone] and we’ll help you with a payment plan.

7. Lab Result Notifications

Waiting for lab results can be nerve-wracking for patients. A simple text notification when results are ready can relieve this anxiety.

Hey [name], your lab results are ready and we didn’t want to keep you waiting. Please call us at your convenience. [phone number]

8. Emergency Alerts

In case of a emergency, SMS is a quick and reliable way to contact your patients.

Hey [name], we’re sorry for the short notice, but our office had to close early today. We will be in touch soon to reschedule your appointment. Thanks for understanding. 

9. Follow-up Messages

Keep your patient care personal by sending follow-up messages to check on a patient’s well-being after a procedure or treatment.

Hey [name], just checking in on your recovery. Any issues? Any questions? We hope you are well but please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need us!

10. Insurance Reminders

You can remind patients when their insurance benefits are about to expire or if they have unused benefits.

Hi [name], we noticed your insurance will expire before your next appointment. Did you know we can update it before you come in to save time? Call us to take care of it. [phone]

Scheduling is just one of the ways healthcare practices are enhancing their patient communications through SMS. There are a variety of ways this modern communication is being put to use in the healthcare industry.  Check out this article on SMS & MMS compliance. Using SMS effectively can lead to better patient engagement, improved communication, and a smoother operational process in your practice.

Need a way to use these sample texts for your practice? Let Message IQ help you get started. Contact us today!