Healthcare consumers want self-service

Consumers are seeking self-service convenience when managing the financial aspects of their healthcare experience, according to a new survey commissioned by NCR, writes Drug Store News.

The annual consumer study, conducted by Buzzback Market Research, reveals more than half (51%) of the 4 570 respondents would like to manage their healthcare account by viewing payment history and settling outstanding balances via online and mobile channels.

At least half of survey respondents said they would be willing to expedite the payment process by pre-authorising a credit card charge for co-pays and balances not covered by their insurance provider.

MSI, a hospitality technology solutions provider, utilises mobile technology to expand the delivery method and utilisation of its Place Point POS, according to Hotel World Network.

Place Point provides integrated, self-service POS functionality with MSI's WinPM property management solution. Expansion to the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch products allows hoteliers alternative tools to leverage point of sale functions.

By delivering Place Point on an iPad, hotel owners can leverage the technology to deliver multiple services on a single device. For example, the guest can utilise the self-service feature of Place Point to order breakfast, and then utilise the iPad to check-in to their flight.

NCR, a provider of self-service solutions, has signed a letter of intent to partner with Intelity on commercial and development initiatives to enhance the overall hotel guest experience, states Market Watch.

Combining NCR self-service hotel solutions and services with the Intelity in-room 'virtual concierge' gives guests greater control of their hotel experience, from check-in to check-out.

Intelity's Interactive Customer Experience solution delivers personalised information that is relevant to guest preferences and stays, via in-room and lobby touch-screens, television, mobile device or the property's Web portal.