Patient Experience
In an effort to improve patient access to care, care coordination and communication between provider and patient, this section contains the following best practices, tools and resources that can assist providers.
Access to Care
- Handle more than one medical problem during the visit and extend return visit intervals when appropriate
- Open same-day appointment slots
- Improve after-hours access
- Consider group visits for patients with chronic conditions
Access to Care Resources
- Tips and Guidelines for Improving Access to Care (PDF)
- California Quality Collaborative (CQC) Overview (PDF)
For additional information, please visit AMA stepsforward.org
- After Hours Sample Scripts - English (PDF)
- Appointment Scheduling Tip Sheet (PDF coming soon)
Care Coordination
- Notify patients of all test results
- Review patient's chart prior to the visit
- Share information with patients' other health care providers
- Enhance transitional care
- Co-manage medical and behavioral health care
- Promote medication reconciliation
Care Coordination Resources
Doctor-Patient Communication
- Negotiate the agenda with the patient at the start of the visit
- Make a personal connection and demonstrate empathy through face-to-face contact and empathic statements
- Provide closure by summarizing next steps and action plan
- Offer cultural and linguistic services
- Conduct office huddles