NorthBay.org started out the new year with a new look and user-friendly features designed to help patients make appointments, select a physician, read NorthBay news, research health issues, find calendar listings for classes and support groups and much more.

Designed to work on all computers and mobile devices, the upgraded site now features a slideshow of “What’s new,” promoting events, physicians and news stories.

There are three tabs that visitors can use to find “Headlines,” “Classes & Events” and “Blogs.”

The “Headlines” tab features a top story of the day and a list of recent NorthBay headlines, as well as a quick link to the news section.

The “Blogs” tab shows readers a snippet of the latest entry in each blog collection with links. NorthBay.org features six unique blogs, written by several local authors who explore everything from health industry trends to diabetes and trauma issues.

The Healthcare Insider blog, written by our President and CEO Gary Passama, continues to be one of the most visited spots on the site, as well as the physician search and job pages.

Blue buttons on the right-hand side make it easy for visitors to find a doctor, a location, manage their health online, find a career, donate, volunteer or make an appointment.

A red “Appointments” button at the top of the home page will lead to three quick access points:

• InQuicker online check-in at NorthBay VacaValley Hospital;
• A quick reference of numbers for call-for appointments; and
• MyNorthBayDoc patient portal, which is the easiest way for patients to make or cancel appointments, check on lab results or view medical records.

There’s also a quick MyNorthBayDoc login right off the home page, from the bottom blue button on the right-hand side. “It’s all about making the web experience convenient, useful and engaging for visitors,” said Sarah Jewel, director of Business Development, who has steered the project from its inception. “We want to provide all the information they need so they can make an informed choice and select NorthBay.”

According to Jewel, the next phase will offer more online conveniences, expanding the online appointment opportunities and scheduling.

“Consumers now expect the same kind of automated customer service with healthcare that they have enjoyed with banking, travel and other service industries for the last decade,” said Jewel. “We want to put those tools in their hands as soon as possible.”