Ensuring “Patient Satisfaction” is high on the list for all facilities. With that in mind, throughout 2012 we will be sharing tips and ideas focused on this topic, and we’ll be asking for your input on how your facility communicates with patients.

A facility’s pre-admission practices offer the first chance to set expectations with patients coming in to the facility. Providing them information before they arrive can help ensure they have thought about the little things that can make their stay more comfortable. E-mail offers an easy and cost effective option to communicate simple messages and these can help boost patient satisfaction.

The most basic and helpful pre-admission message offers tips for preparing for a hospital stay. Point out the things you want patients to consider before arriving at the hospital. Topics should include: documents and paperwork to organize and bring, how to handle money and valuables, appropriate and comfortable clothing, electronics and rules regarding electronics, what personal care items to bring, and anything else you think may benefit the patient.

Does your facility already send pre-admission messages along these lines? If so, we would love to hear from you! Is this communicated via e-mail? What other topics do you cover?