Dr. Emily Harrison Uses Technology To Provide A More Personal Approach
Originally from New Jersey, Wellington’s Dr. Emily Harrison cares for patients the way she would want her own family members to be treated. She works to get to know her patients as individuals, and to develop an understanding of the cultural, spiritual, and social factors that may be contributing to the patient’s health concerns, all with technology and a personal touch.
Moving to the Wellington area three years ago, Harrison enjoys spending time outside of work with her family, being outdoors and running in the community’s many parks. She enjoys going to equestrian events with her family and cooking healthy meals.
“My passion for preventive care inspired me to go into primary care,” Harrison explained. “I enjoy working with patients to set personal goals to improve their health.”
Harrison helped start up the first One Medical office in Washington, D.C. The firm, which now has offices nationwide, is part of a new concept in healthcare across the country that focuses on a personal approach with a designated provider for each patient. The doctor/patient communication relationship is emphasized, and the access to the doctor is maximized while waits are kept to a minimum.
“It is almost like a concierge service, but they take insurance,” Harrison explained. “They treat patients personally, in a relaxed setting with lots of provider communication with the clients. I love that approach — with so much communication. I strive for it in my own practice.”
Harrison incorporates the patient’s entire lifestyle into treatment to get them healthy and keep them that way.
“I focus on educating my patients and setting personal goals to improve their health,” she said. “I stress the importance of incorporating diet, exercise and lifestyle modifications to prevent and treat disease.”
Harrison makes a point to get to know each of her patients very well to facilitate the overall treatment and wellness plan. Somewhat ironically, technology is helping in re-establishing that seemingly long-lost family doctor/patient rapport.
The medical practice has portal technology to make keeping up with medical records easy for the patient, and it has the ability for patients to communicate with the doctor using phones and computers without the need for an office visit.
“I offer telemedicine for established patients,” Harrison said of the HIPPA-compliant, secure computer video link for patients where she can interact with them and “see” the patient without the need for an office visit.
Harrison explained the benefits of the technology.
“It is sometimes difficult for patients to come in during their busy schedule and workdays, or they are too sick to get out of bed,” she said. “These visits may be used for colds or acute illnesses, as well as follow-up visits for high blood pressure or for prescription refills when appropriate.”
Harrison added that the service makes it easier to continue getting the appropriate follow-up care if the patient’s busy schedule, mobility issues or illness makes it difficult to come in.
Harrison said that she is happy to be building her practice here in Wellington and is accepting new patients.
“Wellington has so much to offer, whether experiencing an internationally recognized equestrian event, enjoying local parks or the beach, and events at the exceptional schools,” she said. “I enjoy taking care of patients of all ages and strive to keep the entire family healthy.”
Dr. Emily Harrison’s office is located on the campus of Wellington Regional Medical Center at 10111 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Suite 255. The office accepts insurance and there is no subscription fee. Call (561) 377-7131 or visit www.emilyharrisonmd.com for more information.
