Consider the following when developing the message script and messaging algorithms or logic:

• Keep messages clear and concise; avoid too much shorthand to minimize confusion
• Allow time to test messages, obtain feedback and refine them
• Ensure that text messages are culturally appropriate for the patient population
• Provide an introductory message, and in some cases, a closing message
• Determine the frequency with which texts should be sent based on the structure of the project and patients’ feedback
• Test sending messages at different dates or times to assess when patients will be most engaged

Here are example message content and logic developed by grantees:

• Sacramento Native American Health Center – Text messages for engaging patients in between substance abuse recovery program sessions
• Golden Valley Health Center – Text messages for sending reminders and confirming appointments
• Northeast Valley Health Center – Text messages for monitoring patients’ blood pressure levels and sending appointment reminders
• Olive View UCLA Medical Center – Text messages for Emergency Department admissions tracking
• Asian Health Services Texting Platform – Screenshots of the texting platform and message logic to outreach to patients for insurance enrollment assistance. This includes a step-by-step demo of how clinic staff would navigate the platform to send and manage text messages as well as to track insurance and response status.