Desktop vs. Web Based EMR

Based on HIMSS reports for the last few years, there has been rapid pace in the adoption of EMR technology. However, a question that often disturbs is a choice between desktop and web based EMR.

Practically over a period of time everything has gone “wired”, no field is an exception to the rule. EMR’s came into existence with the desktop versions, however, looking into the widespread advantages of internet, web based EMR’s have come into existence. The biggest advantage a web based EMR would provide over a desktop version is that the data is stored centrally and the information can be accessed from any where and at any point of time. 

Another major difference between desktop applications and web based EMR software can be seen in the cost. Web-based applications are simply less expensive when compared to desktop applications. Web based applications can be used on subscription basis, which keeps out of pocket expenses low. Using web based EMR software will help you keep your startup costs to the minimum. Added to that, web based EMR software requires no investment in upgraded hardware. Thus, your IT maintenance costs will come down drastically with web based EMR software.

Major Benefits of Electronic Medical Records

EMR (electronic medical records) is all set to transform the healthcare industry. The application can deliver unmatched benefits to both doctors as well as patients. Here are the major benefits of electronic medical records:

1. Electronic medical records can be easily stored as electronic files in secure locations. The history of the patients, the notes of the practitioner, facts, statistics and figures can be stored at the same place without occupying a large physical area.

2. The electronic medical records stores very large amount of information. This makes the process of management very easy. When the documents and records have to be searched later for some use, the electronic method is the easiest. It cuts all the hassle that was involved in looking and searching the bulky records and files for hours and hours. Thus it saves a lot of time.

3. The professionals and the practitioners associated with the health care industry reaps huge benefits from the EMR transcription records when it comes to urgent situations. Unlike the earlier times, the history of the treatment and the prediction and detection of problems becomes very easy and fast and this can saves the patient from the adverse affects of prolonged medical condition.

4. When it comes to operations, where all the information if required at the tips, the electronic records or electronic medical transcription can be gained access with a few click of the mouse. This saves a lot of bother on the part of the practitioner and she/he can therefore concentrate better on the real tasks.

5. The older forms of storage of medical records saw the piling up of records in no time and therefore it was very difficult to clean the space and remove all the unnecessary records. With the electronic medical records, it is easy to manage the medical documents and the unnecessary records can be easily deleted to ensure that the storage space has only the required information.

6. The electronic medical records create the conditions for easy analysis of the medical records which would otherwise have been a very tedious job. All the statistics and analysis can be done with a few clicks of mouse. This also helps in the growth and betterment of the health care organization or clinic.

7. The electronic storage of the data is very cheap as compared to the large amount of paper work that was required traditionally. The storage space is very cheap and so is its maintenance, no more bulky cabinets and congested offices.

Medical Billing Services Management

Medical Billing Services Management:

Truly speaking, the healthcare industry is burdened with a large volume of paperwork. Many medical professionals claim they spend more time filling out forms than actually treating patients. A large portion of the endless pile of paperwork is related to coding, submitting and processing medical claims related to physician or medical billing.

With no end in sight to the volume of paperwork associated with managing a medical practice, more and more practices are outsourcing their billing function to third party companies. In this article we take a closer look at medical billing in general, issues related to medical billing and the types of service providers offering medical billing as a third party service.

Generally speaking, medical billing services management is the process of facilitating payment from patients and insurance carriers on behalf of healthcare providers. More specifically, billing refers to the process of submitting medical claims to medical insurance carriers and patients in order for healthcare providers, to receive payment for services rendered. In addition to submitting claims for payment, medical-billing includes the service of following-up on denied or non-adjudicated medical claims in order to rectify payment errors or total lack of payment.

Medical billing services management or billing management software can plays a crucial role in the overall process of medical invoicing.

HIPAA Compliant Solutions

HIPAA stands for "the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act". The HIPAA law was enacted to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the American health care system. The law includes administrative simplification provisions to establish standards and requirements for the electronic transmission of certain health care information. It also requires organizations exchanging information for health care transactions to follow national implementation guidelines.

HIPAA compliant solutions are based on HIPAA policies and hence ensure availability of  required security and safety features. There needs to be certain standardization as regards functionality as well, HIPAA compliant solutions ensure presence of certain essential features that are must for streamlining the overall processes. Hence, in a market where there are numerous vendors with a wide range of healthcare software, HIPAA compliant solutions offer better option.

Benefits of Implementing Certified EMR

 

For a successful implementation of EMR it is wise to create a list of features that is important for you to find a suitable EMR software program. These features may include recognizing adverse drug reactions, e-prescriptions, billing and more. The task of selecting a right EMR for the practice is not so simple with numerous vendors offering a wide range of EMR versions. In this situation, selecting a certified EMR would be a better option that ensures presence of all the standard features.

By selecting certified EMR software, you not only improve the office productivity, while gaining income and reducing expenses but also can keep you within legal limits, with access to stimulus funds as well.

Important Features of EMR Software

EMR software is specifically made for the medical profession. Instead of templates or blank items to contend with you are working with charts, invoices, appointment scheduling and e-prescriptions. This is software programmed, not for the IT consultant you bring in twice a month, but for you-the physician who doesn't have time for computers but still needs a modern day system that is completely searchable, updateable and easy to use.

Let's consider 10 of the most important features of EMR software.

1. Web-Based and Secure Portability

2. Complete Integration with Other Medical Systems

3. E-Prescription Compatibility

4. PQRI Automation

5. Adaptive Learning (System Memorizes Data)

6. Patient Portal Accessible From Anywhere

7. Flexible, Non-Template Based Systems

8. Electronic Document Management and Imaging

9. Voice Recognition and Handwriting Recognition

10. In Compliance with Federal and State Regulations

As you can see, EMR software should be, and for the most part is, highly flexible and customizable to your needs. Keep in mind that the best certified EMR programs are customizable, as they are made for physicians who work in a fast-paced environment.

Increase Efficiency of Your Health Org with EMR

EMR refers to a computer based system that is helpful for entering, automating and sharing medical information. The EMR application aims at making life easier for both doctors as well as patients. Electronic Medical Record is easy to use medical software loaded with special features and customizable settings, which is great for medical groups and solo practices.

Health organizations can get unmatched benefits if the EMR software is used in a right manner:

By using the EMR system health organizations can save a great deal of time, money & office space. The computerized patients chart helps to save time and all the patient data is stored in the system itself.

By using the EMR system the revenue can be increased and the accounts can be managed more speedily without making any kind of errors.

E-prescription is one of the best features of the EMR software. It prevents medication errors and gets alert warnings automatically about drug reactions or unsafe drug combinations.

And above all, in the end the EMR software helps patients with improved quantity and quality of patient service.