Many medical information record systems were initially designed as financial systems with patient information added later, many times as an afterthought. Because these systems were not originally created for patient information, they are inefficient and problematic, providing perfect examples of badly-integrated, non-patient oriented, easily misplaced information systems.
Traditional paper record systems are bulky and take up precious space. Filing, retrieval, and refiling paper records is a labor intensive method of managing patient information. Problems can quickly arise because records cannot be accessed by separate departments at the same time. If a record is checked out for one department, another department must wait, wasting vital time.
Not having immediate access to key information in emergency situations can have serious and dangerous impacts. Paper records cannot be effectively searched or used to track, analyze, or record information, and cannot be efficiently copied or recorded off-site. Studies have repeatedly shown that paper medical records are cumbersome, costly, and can be easily misplaced.
An accessible, centralized, and secure patient information network is key to an efficient and reliable medical facility. By incorporating a system that can consolidate information across all facility operations, from admission to treatment to labs and billing, you increase the flow of information and reduce costs by creating better communication between medical personnel, insurance agencies, and patients. A record system that can accomplish all of this and more is an Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system.
With an integrated EMR system, you can share, manage, collect, and protect medical information more proficiently than with a paper records system. EMR systems allow data to be directly and immediately entered into the network. This saves time, reduces transcription costs, and creates a higher document quality.
EMR systems are proven to reduce the occurrence of conflicting or incorrect drug prescriptions. According to a 2001 study by Arthur Little, the average revenue lost by inaccurate coding can range from 3 to 15 percent of a practice's total revenue.
Physicians' orders and the corresponding results can also be issued, saved and maintained more efficiently in a comprehensive EMR system. EMR systems give physicians the ability to sort and analyze large amounts of medical data to find patterns and help determine the best possible treatment. They can share patient information anywhere the network is in place, in real time. This means quicker medical response time and easier analysis and sharing of patient information. EMR systems offer more complete records that help clinicians, physicians, and staff avoid mistakes and may reduce the cost of malpractice insurance.
Consolidating and integrating your patient information is the key to quality patient care. EMR systems allow more timely treatment decisions, create tools to better manage records, and provide an overall improved patient experience. With a modern EMR information system, you can ensure better quality care, contain and manage operating costs, and mitigate risks.
If you're looking for a reliable provider of an EMR system that can reduce risks, increase revenue, cut costs, and improve patient care, then visit e-MDs.com. Their practicing physicians and staff understand the time constraints of a busy practice. They have developed systems from entry-level applications, to complete comprehensive EMR software helping to solve every medical facility issue. They have effectively developed and deployed technology that saves time, decreases paper use, generates higher practice revenue, cuts costs, and improves patient care. If your facility is looking to join the digital age of medical record management, try e-MDs and learn what a comprehensive EMR system can do for you and your patients.
Brigette Botkin. EMR - e-MDs powerful software can help manage your EMRs.
