Kiosks

Kiosks have become an essential component of our daily routines. Healthcare providers utilise them to efficiently collect vital data and streamline patient traffic into their hospitals.

Self-check-in can…	Benefits
Support multiple languages and patients with visual impairment	Reduces queuing at the desk and the configurable language options ensure that those displayed on the kiosk match local demographic requirements.
Allow patients to confirm and update their demographic details	Reduces the need for patients to go to the desk to get any outdated details corrected e.g., change of address, next of kin details or marital status.
Ask patients to respond to a series of questions	Various questions can be posed and typically these would be to assist the patient and/or the hospital e.g., Is hospital transport required?
Provide patients with a printed slip with call number and clinic directions	The printed ticket slips also contain the patient’s appointment time and location which can be extremely helpful to patients. This information can also be sent to a patient via SMS. Once checked in, the Clarity dashboard is updated to reflect the patient’s current status, including their check-in arrival time, which in turn is also sent back to the hospital booking system.

Using kiosks for patient check-in in a hospital setting can offer several advantages, including:

Time savings: Kiosks enable patients to check in quickly and efficiently, reducing the time spent waiting in line at a registration desk. This can enhance the overall patient experience by minimising wait times.

Improved data accuracy: Patient information can be entered directly into the kiosk system by the patient themselves, reducing the risk of human error during manual data entry. This helps ensure that accurate and up-to-date information is recorded.

Enhanced privacy: Some patients may prefer to provide sensitive information in a private setting rather than at a crowded registration desk. Kiosks can offer a more discreet and confidential check-in process.

Streamlined workflow: By automating the check-in process, kiosks free up administrative staff to focus on other important tasks, such as assisting patients with complex issues or providing personalised care.

Multilingual support: Kiosks can be equipped with language options, allowing patients who are more comfortable in languages other than English to complete the check-in process accurately. This helps overcome potential language barriers and ensures effective communication.

Integration with electronic health records (EHR): Kiosk systems can be integrated with electronic health record systems, facilitating seamless data transfer, and updating patient records in real-time. This integration can improve efficiency and accuracy in managing patient information.

Patient empowerment: Self-service kiosks empower patients by allowing them to take an active role in their healthcare journey. They can review and update personal information, verify appointment details, and access relevant educational materials, promoting patient engagement.

Cost savings: Kiosks can potentially reduce administrative costs by minimising the need for manual data entry and streamlining processes. This can lead to improved operational efficiency and resource allocation within the hospital.

It’s important to note that while kiosks can bring numerous benefits, they should be implemented alongside appropriate staff support and accessibility options to ensure that all patients can comfortably utilise the technology.