Each year, we define strategic IT objectives that align with our vision and drive innovation. Leading the charge are initiatives to develop and enhance the technologies you use every day, improve efficiency and provide unparalleled patient care. As we reach mid-2025, I’m excited to showcase what we’ve accomplished — and what’s next on our journey.

We’ve made strong progress in enhancing clinical communications — introducing tools like on-call directories, shared iPhones and intelligent alarm routing. This year, we successfully piloted an integrated alert and alarm solution at HMCY and HMW, enabling clinicians to receive patient requests directly and bypass central dashboards. The result — faster response times, reduced message volume and improved patient satisfaction. Looking ahead, we’re exploring hands-free communication options and expanding the use of automated alerts and Secure Chat.

Improving patient access also remains a key priority. A strong indicator of progress is the ability for patients to self-schedule appointments online. While the national average sits at just 15% (according to Epic), Houston Methodist leads with over 33% — or 578,000 appointments available online. That’s a 5% increase year over year, reflecting our continued focus on convenience and accessibility.

As part of our broader patient access strategy, HM is opening new Comprehensive Care Centers (CCCs), introducing advanced technologies that enhance both access and the overall patient experience.

Additionally, after launching four years ago, HM’s Community Connect continues to expand and earlier this year, received their Epic accreditation. With HM’s Community Connect, our HM-affiliated providers can purchase our best-in-class Epic electronic health record (EHR) and practice management system to use in their practices.

These are just a few of the key initiatives we’re highlighting this quarter. Looking ahead, we remain focused on leveraging technologies that will help you provide unparalleled patient care. The progress so far is just the beginning — and with your continued partnership, we’ll keep driving meaningful innovation.