physical therapy software and management
One of the most important decisions a practice owner has to make is selecting the best EMR. They must balance cost, functionality and ease of use when choosing a system that will affect every facet of their business.
Denville, NJ (PRWEB) August 27, 2013
“There are hundreds of electronic medical records available in the market, but not all of them were developed for therapists or offer the custom abilities needed for a physical therapy clinic. A practitioner should not provide a one-size fits all healthcare solution for patients and when it comes to your clinic, an EMR should be tailor made for a physical therapy practice,” said Chhoda.
He added that a web-based EMR does not require on-site servers or extensive infrastructure upgrades that can cost several thousands of dollars, even with incentive payments offered by the federal government. Another consideration is security. Those with a web-based system aren’t responsible for maintaining the stringent standards and security measures required to remain HIPAA compliant, and there’s no need to hire an independent IT team to keep the system operational. Chhoda shared the following insights for therapists when selecting an EMR.
- An EMR should be compatible with multiple web browsers and tablet technology for enhanced mobility.
- Physical therapy documentation software should include the ability to import paper documents, notes, and lab and test results.
- Implement a system specifically created for a physical therapy practice.
- Although cost is a major concern, a cheap EMR doesn’t necessarily mean an inferior product, while a highly priced EMR does not mean an excellent one.
- The EMR should offer the flexibility to create custom documents and provide detailed documentation capabilities.
- Look for a system that offers one-touch electronic coding and billing.
- Seek a system that includes a patient portal for communicating with clients and capturing insurance information.
- The selected EMR should include updates, the ability to upgrade and 24/7 tech support.
- Quick documentation is essential for a busy practice and an EMR should handle notes and other pertinent information with a minimum of clicks.
- The clinic’s EMR should be easy to learn, offer online training and ease of use. If the physical therapy management staff doesn’t like the system or if it's difficult and unwieldy, it won’t increase productivity or efficiency.
One of the most important decisions a practice owner has to make is selecting the best EMR. They must balance cost, functionality and ease of use when choosing a system that will affect every facet of their business. Chhoda said before the review process begins, therapists should already determine what they want the EMR to accomplish within the clinic. With Chhoda’s new insights, practice owners will now have the information needed to make informed decisions about their selection of an EMR.
Chhoda’s office can be reached by phone at 201-535-4475. For more information, visit the website http://www.emrnews.com.
ABOUT NITIN CHHODA
Nitin Chhoda PT, DPT is a licensed physical therapist, a certified strength and conditioning specialist and an entrepreneur. He is the author of "Physical Therapy Marketing For The New Economy" and “Marketing for Physical Therapy Clinics” and is a prolific speaker, writer and creator of products and systems to streamline medical billing and coding, electronic medical records, health care practice management and marketing to increase referrals. He has been featured in numerous industry magazines, major radio and broadcast media, and is the founder of Referral Ignition training systems and the annual Private Practice Summit. Chhoda speaks extensively throughout the U.S., Canada and Asia. He is also the creator of the Therapy Newsletter and Clinical Contact, both web-based services to help private practices improve communication with patients, delivery better quality of care and boost patient retention.