Health Systems International recently piloted an enhanced online appointment solution with Norwegian Cruise Lines to help streamline and expedite the care of crew members once the ship reaches the next Port City.
Once the ship medical officer determines a need for additional care to be delivered on shore, an appointment is entered via the Internet from the vessel. HSI is auto notified and appointment scheduling begins. As appointments are scheduled, data is submitted to the vessel via the same Internet interface notifying them of the time, date and location of appointment. Immediate notifications of changes are submitted in real time after updates are made and HSI takes the appropriate action to ensure appointments are modified or rescheduled as requested.
“Completing this pilot with Norwegian Cruise Lines for online appointments, was the first step in redirecting focus to lowering the cost of care,” stated Althea Rollins of HSI, “because we can ensure the patients are being scheduled with quality providers, pre-contracted with HSI to accept discounts. We match the patient’s needs with an appropriate physician in the area where the ship will port next. The crew members receive quality care through an organized process and the ship owner pays MUCH less for the visit.”
Dan Farkas, Vice President and Assistant General Counsel NCL (Bahamas) Ltd., commented, “We are pleased with the results of the online appointment process and technology. This allows our cost control partner, HSI, to not only garner the best price for medical care but also ensures are members are taken care of in quality settings that meet their specific health needs. We look forward to rolling out the process on a larger scale.”