Keeping Up with Technological Innovations

By Ailene Gerhardt, MA, BCPA, Founder, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC

Technological innovations impact every aspect of our lives and access to them has been invaluable while we navigate life during a pandemic. People all along the age continuum have learned to incorporate new technological resources into their daily lives. Securing access to and embracing technological innovations enhances our lives in a variety of ways.

While many articles about embracing technological innovations focus of the benefits to the senior community, the suggestions and resources are useful for everyone. There are so many ways technology has enhanced our lives.

As an independent board certified patient advocate, my focus in this post is on the roles technology plays in achieving better health outcomes, facilitating patient centered care, and ensuring the patient always has the resources to make an informed decision.

Technology use can also positively impact other aspects of our overall health. I have included resources for three other categories and some general resources to explore as well.

Healthcare: Advancements in technology are assisting greatly in a patient’s quick access to their own health information. Patient portals via website and apps give access to doctor’s visit notes, test results, medial history, medications, health education, and improve lines of communication between the provider and patient. Consumers are able to access their insurance claim records online, review Explanation of Benefits, research medications covered by their insurer, get procedure pricing and prescription cost estimates, and more. It is worth exploring websites that provide data about facilities and patient safety, how often a physician has performed a procedure, and ways to protect oneself during a hospital stay.

Review the sites and articles below and explore ones that are new to you and share with others. Access to technology about your health and healthcare, as well as other topics gives you the opportunity to be an informed consumer! It will improve health outcomes and enhance quality of life!

Managing Your Health

Healthcare Costs

Advance Care Planning: Honoring Choices Massachusetts, AARP


Lifelong Learning:

Social Connection:


Transforming Aging:

General Resources:

Technology Guides:

During this uncertain time is it more important than ever that we are connected to the best possible resources. Contact me to help you!

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Connect With Us: When the complexity of your healthcare situation is too challenging to navigate on your own working with an independent board certified patient advocate can help cut through the “red tape” and reduce complications at an emotional time. Contact Ailene to learn more about the value of working with a private patient advocate.

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National Healthcare Decisions Day Resources 2021

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Medicare Open Enrollment: Oct. 15 - Dec. 7, 2020