A team at Magnolia Regional Health Center is helping lead the way in improving patient care beyond the hospital through innovative research on medication adherence.
Led by Hospitalist Director Ben Long, MD, alongside MRHC team members Rebekah McPheters and Steven Burton, the study explored how SMS text message reminders can help patients with congestive heart failure stay on track with their medications after discharge.
In collaboration with DrFirst, the team addressed a widespread issue in healthcare: approximately one in five prescriptions are never filled following hospitalization, and nearly half are left at the pharmacy.
Over the course of the study, the team analyzed outcomes across two phases—a 2.5-year pre-intervention period with no messaging, followed by a 2.5-year post-intervention period where patients received SMS reminders. These messages not only encouraged patients to pick up their prescriptions but also provided education about the importance of their medications.
The results showed meaningful improvements. Patients who engaged with the SMS messages saw prescription fill rates increase by 19% or more, along with a 6% reduction in the likelihood of hospital readmission. Overall engagement reached 90%, an especially notable achievement given the average patient age of 76.
“This study highlights how small, accessible interventions can make a meaningful difference in patient health,” said Dr. Long. “Our goal at MRHC is to provide the best care possible—not just while patients are in our hospital, but as they transition home.”
The simplicity of the intervention was key to its success. The SMS reminders required no sign-up or additional steps for patients, and no added burden for providers, making it an easy and scalable solution.
“This was truly a team effort,” Dr. Long added. “Working alongside Rebekah McPheters and Steven Burton, and in partnership with DrFirst, allowed us to better understand how we can reach patients in a simple but impactful way.”
Dr. Long recently presented the team’s findings at a medical conference in Las Vegas, highlighting how this approach can be adopted by hospitals across the country to improve patient outcomes.
This study showcases the innovation and dedication of MRHC providers and staff, demonstrating how thoughtful use of technology can lead to better outcomes and healthier communities.
