Maximize athenaCommunicator: Tools You Might Be Overlooking
If your organization already uses athenaCommunicator, you’re ahead of the curve in digital patient communication. But with so many customizable features and automation options, it’s easy for powerful tools to go underused.
For healthcare leaders focused on operational efficiency, staffing challenges, and patient satisfaction, now is the time to take a second look at your athenaCommunicator configuration. Below, we highlight several built-in capabilities that can reduce manual workload, improve data accuracy, and elevate the patient experience—many of which you may already have access to.
Enhanced Patient Self-Check-In
Are you fully leveraging the self-check-in functionality? With just a few taps, patients can complete essential forms, update their insurance details, and even take care of co-pays—all before they step through your doors. You control which pieces of the experience are enabled, allowing for tailored workflows that fit your front-desk needs.
Patient Portal + Web Scheduling Parameters
The portal does more than provide access to records—it’s a communication hub. Many practices underutilize Web Scheduling, which allows patients to book appointments within rules your team sets (by provider, location, appointment type, and more). This feature reduces call volumes and frees up staff time, while giving patients the digital access they expect.
ReminderCall – Going Beyond Text Reminders
Most practices use appointment reminders, but not all take advantage of Live Operator services included with athenaOne. These athena employees can reschedule patients in real time using your scheduling parameters, helping to fill gaps and prevent no-shows.
ResultsCall – Proactive Results Communication
ResultsCall notifies patients via call, text, or email when lab or imaging results are ready—prompting them to view the details securely in the portal. If your clinical teams are still calling patients manually, this feature can lift a significant communication burden. Beyond clinical results, athenaCommunicator can also support proactive outreach campaigns that drive additional visits and improve patient retention.
Automated Campaigns – Drive Visits Without Manual Outreach
One of the most impactful yet often overlooked features is the ability to run automated outreach campaigns. The Appointment Tickler campaign, for example, reminds patients when they’re due for a visit—without any manual effort from your team. Learn more about how Appointment Tickler Alarms can simplify your workflow.
Maximize What You Already Have
Your organization has already invested in athenaCommunicator. Ensuring it’s configured to meet your current operational goals is essential—especially as staffing remains tight and patient expectations continue to rise.
Need Help Optimizing?
Ignite Healthcare Solutions specializes in helping current athenahealth clients get the most out of their existing tools. Whether you're unsure if a feature is turned on or want to streamline your current configuration, we can help you:
Identify underused features
Fine-tune workflows
Automate more manual tasks
Let us help you do more with the tools you already have—without adding more to your team’s plate. Every practice is different, and so is every configuration. Reach out to Ignite and let’s make your tools work smarter for your team.
