EMRs are complex electronic beasts of burden that bring about a paradigm shift in the way a clinic operates, be it the physicians, nurses, pharmacists or the medical billing personnel. But the path to EMR implementation and thereafter is never an easy ride, unless you have done your homework and have adequate information to choose an EMR that is apt for your needs.
Below is a list of 8 things to keep in mind when choosing an EMR:
a. Platform Support: One always need to make sure that the EMR is not an exclusive client/server product, but also supports web access and access on your hand-held gadgets like the Blackberry or the iphone.
b. The Learning Curve: Every software, no matter how simple carries with it a learning curve. If the vendor professes “it is very user-friendly”, make sure you make them demonstrate that.
c. Security: Many older EMRs had security features added as an afterthought. Not so in today’s world, but one has to make sure that audit logs are easily accessible, so that one fine day if by some unfortunate turn of circumstance you find yourself in a civil suit, you shouldn’t come up croppers with e-discovery.
d. Data Recovery: Make sure the vendor has substantial data centers with double and triple backup facilities, so that you don’t lose your valuable data in the event of both natural and unnatural calamities.
e. Have a Stable Network: Once the EHR is deployed throughout your location, the vendor will exhibit little patience for your network accidents, so before you start deploying make sure the network is robust.
f. Charge Analytics: One should have a clear understanding of how charges are being captured, by whom, and where it is headed.
g. ICD-10 Compliant: Is the system ICD-10 compliant? If not you will have a lengthy transition period on your hands once ICD-10 sets in.
h. Integration-Friendly: It is uncommon that the EMR will be the sole software used in a clinic, thus make sure that other electronic systems, like PACS etc could be easily integrated to it.
For more in depth information and other criteria to be considered before choosing an EMR) please call us(medical billing companies) at 1-(888)-571-9069 or email steve@billingparadise.com.
