Skip to main content

šŸ“ Writing Clear EHR Writeback Messages

Use custom writeback messages to add clearer context in EMIS when patients are recalled, helping reception teams book correctly.

When setting up your Recall Flow, you have the option to add a custom writeback message. This is the text that appears in EMIS when Hippo writes back an invitation.

Using clear and specific writeback messages helps your reception and clinical teams understand why the patient has been recalled, without needing to cross-check the campaign settings.


āœ… Why it matters

🧾 Clarity for staff – Receptionists and clinicians can quickly see what the patient was invited for.

⚔ Faster booking – Saves time when booking patients in, reducing back-and-forth.

šŸ›”ļø Audit trail – Creates a transparent record of what was sent to the patient within the EHR.


šŸ¦› How to do it in Hippo

1ļøāƒ£ When creating or editing a campaign, navigate to the Recall Flow section.

2ļøāƒ£ Expand the message you want to add the custom writeback message to

3ļøāƒ£ Select the 'custom message' toggle

4ļøāƒ£ Enter the text you’d like to appear in the patient’s record.

  • This can be:

    • The full recall message (as long as it’s under 612 characters)

    • A shorter explanation (e.g. ā€œPatient recalled for asthma annual review via SMSā€)

    • Any other details your team will find useful when handling the recall

5ļøāƒ£ Save your campaign.


🧠 Example

Here’s a good example of a custom writeback message:

SMS sent inviting pt to book annual stroke/TIA review. Link to review questionnaire provided. Book blood test if needed.

Why this works:

  • Clearly states the recall type (stroke/TIA review)

  • Notes that the patient was sent a questionnaire link

  • Flags next steps (book blood test if needed)


šŸ’” Best practice tips

  • Keep writeback messages short but informative (under 612 characters).

  • Always include the reason for recall.

  • Add any important next steps for staff (e.g. ā€œbook double appointmentā€ / ā€œcheck asthma control testā€).

  • Avoid vague wording like ā€œrecall sentā€ — be specific.

Did this answer your question?