NORTH PLATTE, NEB.- April 22, 2025 — Great Plains Health is upgrading its patient text messaging service to enhance communication and improve patient experience. Beginning April 23, the healthcare provider will transition to Hello World, Epic's SMS text message solution.
The new system integrates directly with patient records to provide more accurate and up-to-date information when communicating with patients. It also ensures that phone numbers on file are valid and increases security by allowing patients to quickly consent to receive text messages.
"The new text messaging system will make it easier for patients to confirm appointments, receive updates, and manage their healthcare experience," said Shelby Malsbury, Director of Clinical Informatics at Great Plains Health. "By integrating directly with One Chart, Hello World offers the most accurate and up-to-date information when communicating with patients.
Key features of the new system include:
• Appointment reminders with options to confirm or cancel
• Fast Pass offers for earlier appointments as they become available • Updates for patients and family members
• Clickable links for convenient bill payment options
Starting April 23, patients will receive a text message from the new short code 91487 asking them to opt in to the service. Patients can simply reply "START" to continue receiving text communications.
Great Plains Health notes that while the opt-in message will mention Nebraska Medicine (the technology partner), the service is for Great Plains Health patient communications. Nebraska Medicine provides the messaging technology, but patient care remains with Great Plains Health.