With the rise of digital health, Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are leveraging technology to improve patient care, streamline workflows, and enhance their practice. Here are 10 essential tools every NP should use in digital health practices.

If you’re an NP navigating the world of digital health, having the right tools is essential for delivering high-quality care, and Access Plus Health is here to guide you. From secure telehealth platforms to EHR systems and patient engagement tools, Access Plus Health helps you identify and implement the best digital solutions for your practice. With our support, you’ll ensure that your digital health practice is compliant, efficient, and focused on improving patient outcomes.

1. Telehealth Platforms

Telehealth platforms allow NPs to conduct virtual consultations, improving patient access and convenience.

Top Features:

• Secure video conferencing.
• Integration with electronic health records (EHR).
• Scheduling and billing capabilities.

Examples: Doxy.me, Zoom for Healthcare, Teladoc Health.

2. Electronic Health Records (EHR) Systems

EHR systems streamline patient data management, enabling NPs to document, track, and access medical records efficiently.

Key Benefits:

• Centralized patient data.
• Easy access to medical history and test results.
• Prescription management.

Examples: Epic, Cerner, Athenahealth.

3. Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) Tools

RPM devices allow NPs to monitor patients’ health metrics in real-time, particularly for chronic conditions.

Common Devices:

• Blood pressure monitors.
• Glucose trackers.
• Wearable devices like smartwatches.

Examples: iHealth, BioTelemetry, Fitbit Health Solutions.

4. Clinical Decision Support Systems (CDSS)

CDSS tools assist NPs in making evidence-based decisions by providing diagnostic and treatment recommendations.

Key Features:

• Alerts for potential drug interactions.
• Treatment guidelines.
• Patient-specific recommendations.

Examples: UpToDate, Medscape, Epocrates.

5. Secure Messaging Apps

Secure communication tools enable NPs to connect with patients and colleagues while maintaining HIPAA compliance.

Use Cases:

• Answering patient queries.
• Coordinating care with other providers.
• Sharing test results.

Examples: TigerConnect, Spruce Health, OhMD.

6. Medication Management Apps

These tools help NPs prescribe, track, and manage medications effectively.

Benefits:

• Drug interaction checks.
• Patient adherence tracking.
• Dose calculators.

Examples: GoodRx, PillPack, MediSafe.

7. Mobile Health Apps for Patient Engagement

mHealth apps encourage patients to actively participate in their care by tracking health metrics, appointments, and treatment adherence.

Features to Look For:

• Symptom tracking.
• Appointment reminders.
• Educational resources.

Examples: MyChart, Healow, PatientPoint.

8. Data Analytics Platforms

Analytics tools enable NPs to analyze patient data trends, improving diagnosis, treatment plans, and population health management.

Applications:

• Identifying at-risk patients.
• Monitoring treatment effectiveness.
• Reporting for quality improvement initiatives.

Examples: Tableau, Health Catalyst, Qlik.

9. Workflow Automation Tools

Automation tools simplify administrative tasks, allowing NPs to focus more on patient care.

Key Features:

• Appointment scheduling.
• Billing and insurance claims.
• Patient intake forms.

Examples: Kareo, SimplePractice, IntakeQ.

10. Continuing Education Platforms

Staying updated on the latest medical knowledge is essential for NPs. Online education tools help NPs meet licensing requirements and expand their expertise.

Features:

• CE courses and certifications.
• Specialty-specific training.
• Flexible, on-demand learning.

Examples: NurseCE4Less, MedBridge, Coursera.

Integrating these tools into digital health practices enables NPs to deliver efficient, high-quality care while staying ahead in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. By leveraging technology, NPs can enhance patient outcomes, streamline workflows, and advance their careers in digital health.