In today’s fast-paced healthcare environment, convenience, transparency, and accessibility are more important than ever. That’s where MyChart comes in—a secure, online platform that empowers patients to take an active role in their healthcare journey. 

For both patients and healthcare providers, it’s more than just a portal. It’s a bridge to better health outcomes and more efficient, connected care. Here, Phil Kambic, President and CEO of Riverside Healthcare, discusses why Riverside has gone “all in” on MyChart and the results it has thus far generated.

What Is MyChart Capable Of?

From scheduling appointments and viewing test results like blood work and x-rays to messaging providers and managing prescriptions, MyChart offers a comprehensive suite of tools that enhance communication and streamline care. “It is amazing how easy and simple it is. I used to call one of the VPs and say, ‘Hey, I need this appointment,’ and they would make it happen for me,” shares Kambic. “Today, I can get on MyChart. I can do it all myself, and it actually works.”

Patients can also fill out any necessary paperwork, such as health and family history, prior to an office visit. This expedites the process and allows patients to get in with their provider in a timely manner.

An Added Benefit: Documentation Ease

An additional benefit exists within the documentation process. MyChart enhances the experience for both physicians and patients by reducing manual data entry during medical visits. Instead of typing notes during the appointment, doctors can use ambient voice technology to record the conversation—with patient consent—which captures the details and inputs them into the system. 

Such an approach allows the physician to focus on the patient rather than a screen. After reviewing and approving the notes, the doctor can quickly finalize documentation and electronically send prescriptions or test orders, saving time and improving efficiency for everyone involved. Kambic assures that only the most relevant information is included.

“This technology is so smart. If I say, ‘Do you like the Cubs? Did you see that Cubs game last night?’ it excludes that from the note. The tool knows that was not a medical type of question and will exclude it,” he explains. “It's really fascinating how smart the technology has become.”

A Connected Network of Care

MyChart optimizes care coordination by allowing multiple providers to access the same patient notes and medical history. If a primary care doctor refers a patient to a specialist, the specialist can view all relevant information without needing to make separate calls or request records. This shared access simplifies the process for patients, reduces redundancy, and enhances continuity of care—no matter where that care is delivered.

“A great thing is, if you're a patient at Riverside and you're vacationing out in California and something happens, let’s say you have to go to a hospital out there, they could actually access your records if you give them permission,” notes Kambic. “What an amazing option, from an incredible convenience standpoint, to an emergency standpoint, to just everyday care.”

The Future of Healthcare: Get on Board Today

Currently, about 65% of Riverside patients use MyChart, but that number is expected to rise to 80–85% as more people recognize its benefits. MyChart also supports proxy access, allowing caregivers—such as adult children of aging parents—to manage accounts with permission. In fact, MyChart accounts are even created for newborns so parents can access their child’s health information from the start. 

As healthcare becomes more digital, MyChart is expected to become increasingly widespread due to its convenience, accessibility, and added layer of safety. “If you don't have a MyChart account, go out and get one,” urges Kambic. “It's very easy to do. If you need help, we have people at the hospital who can assist. It's definitely worthwhile, even just to have access to your own medical record. That's what you deserve.”

For more information about Riverside MyChart click here.