For both patients and medical clinics, scheduling appointments and communicating with patients can be difficult in today’s hectic world. HotDoc is useful in this situation. HotDoc is one of the top patient interaction platforms in Australia, with millions of patients and thousands of healthcare professionals trusting it. However, what is its precise purpose?
What Is HotDoc?
HotDoc is a digital health platform that helps streamline the connection between medical practices and patients. It was founded in 2012 with the aim of improving the way Australians access healthcare services. Through a web-based platform and mobile app, HotDoc simplifies how patients find doctors, book appointments, and manage their healthcare.
What Is HotDoc Used For?
HotDoc offers a suite of tools and features that benefit both clinics and patients. Here are the main uses:
1. Online Appointment Booking
The most common use of HotDoc is booking appointments online. Patients can browse nearby medical practices, see available time slots, and book with their preferred GP or specialist—all within minutes. This feature reduces phone traffic and helps clinics run more efficiently.
2. Appointment Reminders & Check-In
HotDoc sends automated SMS and email reminders to patients before their appointments. Some clinics also use the platform for contactless check-in, allowing patients to sign in via their mobile device when they arrive.
3. Recalls and Results
Clinics can use HotDoc to send secure messages to patients regarding test results or recalls for follow-up care (e.g., immunisations, screenings). This keeps the communication efficient and confidential.
4. Health Alerts and Broadcasts
During urgent health campaigns or outbreaks (like the COVID-19 pandemic), clinics can use HotDoc to send mass communications to their patient base, ensuring everyone stays informed.
5. Online Repeat Prescriptions and Referrals
Some clinics offer the option to request repeat prescriptions or specialist referrals through HotDoc without needing a full consultation, making it more convenient for ongoing care.
6. Patient Feedback and Reviews
HotDoc helps practices gather feedback by prompting patients to leave reviews. This not only helps clinics improve but also helps new patients choose providers based on real experiences.
Why Do Medical Clinics Use HotDoc?
For healthcare providers, HotDoc is more than just a booking system—it’s a practice efficiency tool. By automating communication, reminders, and administrative tasks, HotDoc allows clinics to spend less time on the phone and more time focusing on patient care.
Key benefits for clinics include:
- Fewer no-shows thanks to reminders
- Improved patient retention and satisfaction
- Easier management of chronic disease follow-ups
- Enhanced visibility online through patient reviews
Why Do Patients Love It?
Patients love HotDoc because it puts control in their hands. Whether it’s booking an appointment after hours, managing family members’ health needs, or accessing results securely, HotDoc makes healthcare more accessible, convenient, and transparent.