Email improves the patient's health - Patient Centered IT

Email improves the patient's health - Patient Centered IT: "A study conducted by Kaiser Permanente shows the relevance of patient email. The finding relates to the observation that the act of writing actually triggers deeper consideration and self reflection than other interfaces (see book for reference) which leads to better participation and compliance. Same for the doctor. A 3.5 minute written answer might be better targeted and focused than the same talking effort."

That's why I tell my patients to email me rather than phone me. It disciplines me into providing thoughtful careful answers - and also makes them do their homework, so they can ask intelligent questions !