What is a patient portal?

A patient portal is best defined as an online platform that enables patients to access their health information and facilitate communication with their healthcare providers. This digital tool allows patients to view medication lists, lab results, and appointment schedules, empowering them to take an active role in their healthcare management. Additionally, it often provides features for messaging providers, requesting prescription refills, and scheduling appointments, making healthcare more efficient and accessible.

Other options, while related to healthcare, do not accurately capture the specific purpose of a patient portal. The choice referring to a platform for healthcare administrators focuses on administrative functions rather than patient engagement. A social media site for healthcare professionals is oriented towards networking and knowledge sharing among providers rather than patient interaction. Finally, a physical location for patient visits does not embody the online nature of a patient portal, as it pertains to the physical infrastructure for delivering healthcare rather than a digital interface for accessing information.