Write Messages and Start Conversations

Depending on your organization and type of account, your patient portal might include the ability to send messages to your providers. Remember to allow up to three business days for a response. Do not use messaging for urgent matters. Call 911 if you are experiencing a medical emergency.

Note:

See Refill Medications and Renew Medications for information about sending messages about medications.

If you have the ability to send messages, complete the following steps to write and send messages to your provider or care team:

1. From the Inbox dashboard, select New Message.
2. Select the Topic list and select a topic. The list of topics varies by healthcare organization.
3. Optionally, enter a subject for the message.
4. In the Send To box, select the recipient. This list includes the established providers you can send messages to.

   Note:

   If you don't see the provider listed that you are trying to contact, call the provider's office. You will need to establish a relationship with the provider before you can message them.
5. Optionally, under This Conversation Will Be Shared With, deselect the checkbox next to any names for people you do not want to see this message.

   Note:

   This list typically includes authorized representatives (proxy users) who have access to your profile.
6. Select Next. The conversation page is displayed.

   Note:

   Once you select Next, you will be unable to change any settings, such as the list of people who can view that conversation.
7. Enter the message in the Message box.
8. Optionally, select Add Files to attach a file. See Add Attachments for more information.
9. Select Send Message. The completed message is displayed.