Enhancing Patient-Doctor Communication with Texting and Telehealth: A Conversation with Ethan Bechtel, CEO of OhMD
Communication between patients and doctors has always been a challenge, particularly in the increasingly digital age. In a recent episode of the HealthBiz podcast, host David E. Williams sat down with Ethan Bechtel, CEO and Co-Founder of OhMD, a HIPAA compliant texting and telehealth platform, to discuss the benefits of texting in healthcare and the journey towards building a sustainable business in this space.
The Benefits of Texting in Healthcare
Ethan's entrepreneurial upbringing and personal journey through healthcare has shaped his vision for an ideal healthcare experience. His mother founded an orthopedic clinic at Killington Mountain Resort, and he grew up in the business, learning about revenue cycle management and how to process payments. His own experience with multiple orthopedic injuries led him to create OhMD as a solution for better communication between patients and doctors.
Adoption of Technology in Healthcare
Ethan and David discussed the early days of developing patient portals and the challenges with getting users to adopt them. The conversation explored the eventual shift towards text messaging as an entry point for improved communication and the development of secure messaging systems for healthcare. The influence of Rich Tarrant, former CEO of IDX Systems, and his encouragement to build software around solving specific healthcare problems was also highlighted.
Improving Healthcare Outcomes
The importance of prioritizing patient experience when developing solutions for healthcare communication was discussed, as well as the evolving value propositions for different types of practices. In addition to improving patient acquisition and reducing no-shows, they explored how communication platforms can help streamline operations and deliver a higher level of service. The conversation also touched on the need for flexibility and adaptability in communication technology as it continues to evolve.
Building a Sustainable Business
Ethan explained the challenges of focusing on a specific market segment for a business like OhMD, which aims to facilitate flexible patient-doctor communication across various types of practices. The conversation also touched on the company's financing strategy, leveraging organic growth rather than raising significant venture capital. Additionally, they delved into the future of OhMD and the role of AI in enhancing efficient conversations and human connections.
The Economic Future of Vermont
Finally, the discussion turned to the economic future of Vermont and its potential to attract more tech businesses and talent. Ethan highlighted the growing tech hub in Burlington and the importance of attracting smart people who want to work in a different environment than a large city. Conclusion The conversation between David Williams and Ethan Bechtel offered valuable insights into the benefits of texting in healthcare and the journey towards building a sustainable business in this space. By prioritizing patient experience, focusing on organic growth, and leveraging technology to enhance communication, OhMD is well-positioned to continue improving healthcare outcomes for patients and doctors alike.
