New York City-based Northwell Health has launched a text and email program to reduce no-show rates for colonoscopies scheduled at two hospitals.
The program, based on Conversera Health's automated platform, uses artificial intelligence to address questions and concerns related to colonoscopy, as well as the benefits of the procedure.
"Colonoscopy is a powerful and potentially lifesaving procedure, but many people are intimidated or think it will be much more unpleasant than it really is,” said Sabina Zak, Northwell Health’s vice president of community health and health services research. “The colonoscopy health chat platform is a flexible, scalable solution that improves health literacy and gives patients the information they need whenever they need it, so that they feel comfortable and motivated to get screened."
The platform is available to patients scheduled to undergo colonoscopies at Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New Hyde Park, N.Y., and Southside Hospital in Bay Shore, N.Y. The chats are available in Spanish and English.
“Health literacy is a strong determinant of wellness among vulnerable populations,” said Ms. Zak. “By helping patients understand their treatment and the reasons for it, we think the colonoscopy health chat will enable more patients to get the care they need and deserve.”