EMR systems

Are you thinking about going paperless in your office? My golden rule for big projects is to start with the end in mind. Start by thinking how automating your charting process could make your life easier. Think about how you'd like to use the system, where you'd like to use it and what you'd like to accomplish by using it. What do I mean?

Let's start with how you'd like to use the system? The answer might be that you don't want to use it at all. That could mean that you want a simple system that allows you to fax or scan paper documents into it or that you want a more robust system that integrates with others so that you spend as little time typing or retyping information as possible. Maybe you'd like to capture your notes while your operating or treating a patient so that you don't have to dictate after the case or visit. Or maybe you'd want prescriptions captured as you write them and confirmation from the patient's pharmacy when the script is filled and/or picked up by the patient. Who else needs to contribute information for you to have the complete picture before treating the patient? Can you get the information from their system electronically? Who do you want to share the information with? Other providers, the patient or the insurer?Getting the right system starts with your wish list and of course, your budget.

So where would you like to use it? To some degree the answer depends on how much you want to use the system. For those that want a simple solution, the answer might be only from the office or from the office and home. But for those wanting a more robust system you should think about how you'd integrate the system into your daily work life. Do you like to do your charts from one place, multiple stations or would you like to do them on the run? Think about if it's possible to capture your notes while your treating patients and how that would work for you.

What would you like to get out of it? More time. Absolutely. How about a crystal ball? I'm kidding - Kind of. The information you collect can become that crystal ball by using a system that can aggregate the data into meaningful reports. Knowing who your patients are, what they need and how best to service them now to get the best outcome is not only good for the patient - it's good for you too. As you know insurers are starting to pay for results not the service. So it might make sense to spend a little more to get a system that can give you an edge.

The technology solution of your dreams might not exist today but you can set yourself on a good course by selecting a system with a good foundation and a vendor with vision for what you want. The more you can clearly convey your wish list the better the chance they will build what you want.

Need some help? Get the scoop from others on the systems you're considering. Post your questions or needs here.