Think Younger Patients Are The Only Ones Using Text Messaging? Think Again.

Physicians are utilizing text messaging to better engage with patients, and as a result, patients are receiving faster communication, better information, more care, and a much improved patient experience. According to a report by Research2Guidance, healthcare providers are turning to mobile with 80% of physicians using smartphones and medical apps — and patients are equally active mobile users.

Our research with our own customers and their patients found that older patients who use text messaging have similar response rates when compared to younger patients. The first chart, below, shows the response rate to reminders for patients aged 15-59 years old. The average response rate is around 30%.

The second chart, below, shows the response rate to reminders for patients aged 60 years and older. The average response rate for this age group is very similar.

The takeaway? Patient engagement with texting is very similar across generations. Older patients will engage with your practice equally as much as younger patients. So, don’t be afraid to text your older patients. 

We utilize text messaging and email to save you time and increase your patient satisfaction. We offer automated waitlists, cancellation management, appointment confirmation texts, referral management, patient recall, and more.

Tashfeen Ekram, MD, is a radiologist, self-taught coder, healthcare innovator and Co-Founder of Luma Health. Contact him on Twitter at @tashfeenekramMD.