Getting Started with Messaging
Last updated: July 22, 2026
Messaging is your two-way texting inbox for patient conversations. Send a text, get replies back in real time, and keep the whole thread in one place — right alongside the workflow that started it.
Where to find it
Go to Comms → Messages. The inbox opens with your conversation list on the left and the selected thread on the right.
What you need before you can text
Two things must be in place:
An active Messaging subscription — Messaging is a paid Comms feature. If your practice isn't subscribed, you'll see the subscription screen instead of the inbox.
A messaging number — your practice needs a dedicated texting number. Until one is purchased, the inbox shows a "No messaging number yet" notice and the compose button is disabled. An admin can purchase a number from Comms → Admin → Messaging.
One more step for SMS: carrier verification
Before your texts can be delivered, U.S. carriers require a one-time verification of your business (called A2P). If texting isn't active yet, you'll be pointed to Business Verification. See Setting Up SMS: Business Verification for the full walkthrough.
💡 Tip: Messaging is currently rolling out to practices in stages. If you don't see it in your Comms menu yet, it hasn't been enabled for your practice.
What's next
Navigating the Messaging Inbox
Starting a New Conversation