Pathology Messenger
Pathology Messenger
The Pathology Messenger is an AI tool that turns a lab report into a clear, patient-friendly WhatsApp message. Instead of typing a custom message for each result, the AI generates a draft based on the patient's results and their full medical history.
1. Open the Pathology Messenger
Location: Pathology Centre, result row, WhatsApp icon (green)
Click the green WhatsApp icon on a result row in the Pathology Centre. The Pathology Messenger dialog opens with a two-panel layout.
Advanced AI feature: The green WhatsApp icon only appears when the Advanced AI subscription is enabled on your account. If you don't see it on any result row, that's most likely why, your practice's Business Consultant can activate it.
2. Review the AI's analysis and draft message
Left panel, Cumulative Metrics: the AI's clinical analysis. It compares the new results against the patient's previous labs, chronic conditions, and full clinical timeline, not just the current result in isolation. Key metrics are shown with reference ranges and trend indicators.
Right panel, Patient message: a plain-language WhatsApp message explaining what the results mean for this specific patient. The message includes context, what to watch for, and reassurance where appropriate.
You should see: The message is generated from the patient's entire history, not just today's result. A patient with previously well-controlled HbA1c getting a high reading will receive a different, more contextualised message than a new patient with the same value.
3. Refine and send
Review the message for accuracy and tone. Use the Message Update field to add any additional context, for example "Please contact the practice to schedule a follow-up." Then click Copy to copy the message to clipboard, or Send to dispatch it directly via HBC's WhatsApp system.
One-way communication: Messages sent via the Pathology Messenger are delivered from HBC's system, patients cannot reply back into Healthbridge Clinical. Two-way communication is on the product roadmap. Before sending, verify that the contact number on file is correct, especially for dependent patients, for example a child's result going to the parent's number.
Frequently asked
Q: Does the message go from my personal WhatsApp or the practice's WhatsApp?
Neither, it sends from HBC's dedicated business WhatsApp line. This keeps patient communications separate from personal accounts and ensures all messages are tracked in the patient's timeline.
Q: Can I edit the message before sending?
Yes, the generated message is fully editable. Review it, make any changes, and use the Message Update field to add extra context before clicking Send.
Q: What if the patient doesn't have WhatsApp?
Use the SMS option instead, click the chat bubble icon on the result row to send a standard SMS notification or appointment reminder.
Q: Is this POPIA compliant?
Yes, all communications via the Pathology Messenger are handled within the secure Healthbridge environment and are POPIA compliant. Patient data is not sent through personal messaging accounts.