Putting Your Health at Your Fingertips - Community Health Center Month Op-Ed

2 hours ago
3 min read

Managing my health has never been easier and more convenient. Epic MyChart, an electronic health record access portal, gives me secure, 24/7 access to my health information from a computer or mobile device, making it easier than ever to stay connected with my healthcare team. In my view, that's one of the most important advances we've made to take an active role in our own healthcare.

Healthcare doesn't begin and end with an office visit. It happens every day in the choices we make, the medications we take, the questions that come to mind after we've left the clinic, and the follow-up care that keeps us healthy. Having access to my health information when I need it, rather than only during business hours, is making a meaningful difference for me in dealing with my own health conditions.

That's why I believe Epic MyChart is much more than an online patient portal. It is a resource that empowers me to become informed about my own care. Through MyChart, I can view test results, request prescription refills, schedule appointments, review visit summaries, and send non-urgent messages directly to my healthcare team, all from my home computer or cell phone.

For me, balancing work, family responsibilities, or ongoing health conditions, the convenience of MyChart saves valuable time eliminating unnecessary barriers to care. Instead of wondering about lab results or waiting to call during office hours, I have access to information, when I need it. You can also manage your children's healthcare, and caregivers can help loved ones stay on track with appointments, medications, and follow-up care through secure proxy access.

As someone who believes deeply in the mission of Community Health Center of Lubbock, Inc., I see MyChart as another way we are improving access to quality care. Community Health Center of Lubbock, Inc. has always been committed to serving the Lubbock community by removing barriers and making healthcare more affordable and accessible, regardless of a person's insurance status or ability to pay. Providing patients with easy, secure access to their healthcare information is a natural extension of that commitment.

Technology will never replace the personal relationship I have with my healthcare provider. It shouldn't. Instead, it should strengthen that relationship. When patients are informed and engaged, conversations with their providers become more meaningful, treatment plans are easier to follow, and individuals are better equipped to make decisions about their health.

I believe the future of my health is built in part on me working closely with my providers to achieve better outcomes. Epic MyChart helps make this partnership stronger by keeping communication open, information accessible, and healthcare within reach every day, not just during an occasional office visit.

If you haven't signed up for MyChart, I encourage you to check out our website and sign up online or ask about it during your next appointment. It is a simple step that can help you stay informed, connected, and actively involved in your healthcare journey. The best way to improve your health starts with having the right information at your fingertips, then taking the right actions with good intention.

About James Johnson

is currently Board President of Community Health Center of Lubbock, Inc and has been a longtime Board member at this agency. James is a patient in the clinic and has lived in Lubbock all of his life. Community Health Center of Lubbock, Inc. serves nearly 25,000 Lubbock area residents with over 75,000 visits annually focused on medical, dental, vision, and behavioral health.

###

Posted by Latino Lubbock Magazine Digital Media