WebMD, symplr Partner On Provider Search, Appointment Scheduling

WebMD is working with provider data management search platform symplr on a search and scheduling tool that combines both entities’ strengths, according to a press release.

The new offering uses search engine optimization and “trusted content” to lead customers to “a health system’s digital front door for real-time provider search and appointment scheduling,” the release stated.

The goal is for WebMD’s content to drive consumers to participating providers, as well as symplr’s Find a Doctor search and scheduling tool. It will let consumers search and schedule appointments from one workflow rather than having to determine a provider’s availability and health plan participation over the phone, according to the release.

WebMD sees more than 75 million consumers each month search its site for health information and guidance on how to take action to treat their symptoms, including ways to find healthcare professionals who can meet their needs, the release stated.

Meanwhile, symplr’s directory is used by some of the country’s largest healthcare systems for data management, according to the release.

“Extending symplr’s vast provider resources and services and curated provider data to WebMD, including subspecialty, clinical and patient-friendly search terms, health plan participation, and direct scheduling in the electronic health record, makes it easier for consumers to find [healthcare professionals] and book an appointment with an available, in-network provider,” the companies said in the release.

In other digital health news, Rochester RHIO last week became the first health information exchange to collaborate with the Ciitizen network to facilitate the sharing of clinical data with patients.

Read more: Ciitizen HealthTech Firm Collabs With Rochester RHIO For Streamlined Data Sharing

Based in New York, Ciitizen is a healthcare technology startup that lets patients have complete control of their medical records. The company’s recently launched Cures Gateway is designed to streamline compliance to give patients an easier time when obtaining requested information. It allows patients to access health records from any personal health app while still adhering to compliance rules.