An overflowing inbox can become a pain point for most working professionals. Clearly, that fear alone may even hamper productivity to some extent. However, epic inbox management is an utmost necessity as it not only allows one to de-clutter but also helps restore peace and increase efficiency. Here are some tips to help you formulate a sound strategy in that direction.
Know the Right Amount of Information to Provide and the Right Amount to Collect
It’s normal for a busy professional to have countless emails in their insurance. By allowing this snowball effect to set in, which keeps on collecting more and more untouched emails, it’s important to put measures in place to explain how to deal with this catastrophe. For instance, consider organizing your emails into folders and assigning them rules in the form of inbox gels to help with organization and prevent losing important messages from history.
Save Time by Sending out the Email at a Future Desired Time using Boomerang
Being able to anticipate an email that you won’t be able to send out in the present using the tool Boomerang will assist you in remaining focused for an extended period. By helping you free your mind up to focus on what’s important now, you will be further able to help with time management and won’t have to switch tasks back to back before completing the previous one. This is where the epic inbox management comes into action to save your time.
Healthcare Communication in Epic: Tackle Increased Inbox Volume Post-Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly been a factor in the increasing volume of inboxes, which in turn has led to a greater number of messages not being replied to or replied to adequately. Such volumes may lead to distress, inefficiencies, and even burnout. As a solution to this problem, some experts recommend changes in the EKHR electronic was; focusing on ergonomics and situational awareness. Epic EHR message management is the way to address all these issues and get rid of all these inefficiencies.
Automate Routine Tasks
Many surveyed primary care providers (PCPs) recommended features that automate tasks such as generating letters to inform patients of test results or medication refill requests. These automated tools could streamline inbox management by reducing the number of routine messages in your inbox.
Centralize Information for Streamlined Processing
Survey respondents also suggested adding features to the inbox that allow physicians to access patient information from other sources directly, reducing the need to switch between screens or applications. This consolidation of information can help in improving EHR efficiency.
Incorporate Secure Messaging for Team-Based Care
Incorporating a secure messaging system into the inbox can facilitate team-based care coordination, reducing the need for frequent email exchanges. This can be particularly helpful for healthcare teams, as it keeps communication streamlined and accessible within the same platform.
Establish Coverage for Time Off
The survey found that most facilities have developed systematic approaches to cover inboxes when physicians are out of the office due to vacation, sick days, or scheduled absences. Basic coverage often involves a “buddy system,” where one physician covers the inbox of a partner who is out. More advanced systems may involve rotating coverage among a group of physicians or designating an “in-basket ninja” to cover all absent physicians’ inboxes.
Address Coverage Gaps
While these coverage systems are beneficial, they don’t always provide timely or adequate responses to urgent messages. Ensuring that these systems are efficient and robust can help prevent message backlogs and ensure continuity of care.
Effective inbox management can help busy professionals reduce stress and stay productive. By using tools, organizing messages, and establishing clear strategies for coverage, you can keep your inbox under control and maintain a healthier workflow.
