MedicInfo: A patient-centered technological solution to boost experience during the Emergency Department journey

The lack of effective information and communication during an emergency department (ED) stay can lead to frustration, anxiety, and a negative perception of the service by patients. This article presents the design and initial validation of MedicInfo, a proposed mobile web application that provides real-time information to patients about their care process in the emergency department. Based on a needs assessment survey (n=264) conducted in a private Colombian ED, we developed a responsive system with specific interfaces for patients, nurses, coordinators, and administrators. The system design allows patients to view their estimated waiting times, status of medical tests, identify their treating physician, access details about their consultation, and provide feedback. Clinical stakeholder validation confirms the potential of this patient-centered technological approach to address identified information gaps and improve patient experience during the ED journey.