MMT: Message Medicine on Text - A fallible practice

In the age of digital practice Doctors indulge in practice of doing lots of Community service and Practice management over SMS and texting apps like Whatsapp, IM and all such apps. But have you ever wondered the limitations and obligation in such action?

Here is how to put use of such means appropriately:

Do consensual messaging: Add another line in your consent. If the patient intends to be contacted for appointments, follow ups, investigations or some promotional offers. This makes you safe while you do not spam.

Mindful information: Imagine receiving text, “Your blood sample is reported positive for HIV”. Dropped off your hat!!

Never do the mistake of passing on critical information over text message. Do not make the patient panic. Just put a request of seeing the doctor on priority.

Medical Record: Make note of content of SMS sent (Date, time and details) on patient's record/prescription with the need of such  communication. P.S. such communication or request can be made by RMO or Nursing staff at an odd hour.

Text Prescription: Patients often ask for medicines over phone. Please do not do so and if at all you need to suggest, avoid a text message. Prescribing Medicines over phone makes you own the liability without even examining the patient. Avoid doing it unless absolutely sure.

Technology is there to make life easier and not messier…