Electronic medical records exist in more medical facilities now than ever before. In fact, roughly 78.4 percent of office-based physicians used EMR technology as of 2013, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. EMRs are being increasingly used across the medical sector because the meaningful use of digital medical records makes medical practices eligible for financial incentives through Medicare and Medicaid, according to the Department of Health & Human Services.
While the use of EMRs is a step forward from lengthy paper records, the new technology is not without its own set of issues. To be truly effective in a medical setting, EMRs must support health care organizations as opposed to adding extra obstacles for doctors, nurses and other medical professionals.
There are plenty of benefits to using an electronic medical records system. Not only is a patient's health information consolidated in one location, but doctors will access to the EMRs can also better view the pertinent details of a case and make decisions accordingly. While it is nice to find all of a patient's relevant medical history in the same place, EMRs can be problematic if they are not organized the correct way.
EMRs can affect insurance claims
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services have incredibly strict coding policies. That means that if health care providers do not abide by all of the rules and regulations, they will not receive any compensation for their claims. If that occurs, providers are forced to spend more time than they should worrying about the proper documentation of the EMR rather than helping patients.
An effective EMR software also helps to maximize claims reimbursements. In order to do so effectively, a patient's EMR use the right language and terminology. One of the leading causes of rejected insurance claims is an incorrect documentation. That said, it is a good idea to choose an EMR software that makes it easy for claims professionals to read and understand the medical terminology outlined by a physician or medical professional.
That said, effective use of EMRs has the potential to boost both patient and provider satisfaction tremendously all while helping to streamline a variety of services. Investing in an EMR software can be a tremendous help to a medical provider if the right one is chosen.
Choosing the right EMR software
If you are looking to streamline your medical record system, consider taking advantage of modern EMR software. The best EMR software systems consolidate a patient's health records, organize it logically and engage patients to help make them a part of the solution to their own medical issues.
"It's important for EMR software to be user-friendly."
It's also important for your EMR software to be user-friendly. Remember that medical professionals are not technology wizards. While there is sure to be somewhat of a learning curve when it comes to implementing EMR software, it can be made easier by high-quality, user-friendly EMR software. Try to find a software system that won't take long to figure out. Physicians and nurses should be able to document case notes in a way that is easily understood by future medical professionals in the same practice. EMRs are another way that doctors, nurses and other medical professionals are able to provide the highest level of care for their patients.
For more resources and training materials to improve your hospital's financial efficiency and protect your bottom line, contact Professional Medical Services today.
