When choosing the best EMR for your practice there are many things to consider.  Among the first is whether the PM (Practice Management) software you are currently using has an EMR component and whether it will meet the requirements under the HITECH section of the ARRA.  It is highly desirable to use an EMR that integrates with your PM or scheduling software to avoid finger pointing between vendors.

If an EMR solution from your PM vendor is not an option, these are some tips on choosing an EMR for your practice.

Identify Work flow

Examine and become familiar with the work flow in your practice.  Consider how patients make appointments, when charts are pulled, check-in, etc.  Keep this in mind when you are researching EMR’s.  Look for ways you can use technology to streamline this process.

For example, many EMR solutions offer an online portal that your patients can use to fill out forms before they get to the practice.  This can cut down administration time allowing you to see more patients per day.

Identify Key User Groups

Identify who will be using the PM/EMR system and what their rolls will be.  Form a committee with a representative from each group to review the EMR software.  When viewing demo’s of the EMR make sure a representative from each group is present so they can give feedback.  Typical groups would be doctor, admin, nurse,  billing, etc.

Identify Key Tasks

Identify the key tasks in your practice.  Make sure that the EMR software you choose addresses these tasks.

More Things To Consider

These are some of the other things that should be considered:

• Does the EMR have a way to update Medicare and Medicaid billing codes?
• Process for scanning old charts.
• Ease of use.
• Is the EMR compatible with e-prescribe?
• How long has the EMR company been around?  (Many new EMR’s will be offered because of the ARRA).
• Market share of the software vendor.

For more help choosing an EMR solution, updating your IT infrastructure or website design, please contact Emergent at 407-834-2700.