physical therapy software and management
Clinic owners should do their part to keep staff informed and ensure they receive proper training. Make sure to identify the advantages of the new physical therapy EMR system and how it will make their jobs easier.
Denville, NJ (PRWEB) August 19, 2013
“Evaluating different software can be a mind-numbing experience and is a time consuming and tedious process, especially with so many systems available in the market. But it will be much less stressful when you know what to look for and when your staff is fully prepared for implementation,” said Chhoda.
Defining Objectives
Chhoda said one of the most important aspects of EMR implementation is choosing a system that’s specifically designed for a physical therapy practice. Clinic owners should also have a clear idea of what they want their documentation software to accomplish. The physical therapy software should offer electronic billing and coding, a patient portal, and be web-based for security and cost savings. Clinics should be able to import notes, obtain access via any web browser, and be compatible with tablet technology for portability.
Customization
An EMR should enhance the clinic’s efficiency and productivity. It shouldn’t interfere in normal processes or require clinicians to change the way they operate their business. Each practice has its own way of conducting business and therapists should ensure their EMR allows creating custom documents and templates.
Don’t Be Anxious About the Unknown
The Affordable Care Act mandates that practices implement an EMR by 2014. It’s no longer a question of if, but when. Fear of the unknown is one of the biggest enemies of implementation. Clinic owners should do their part to keep staff informed and ensure they receive proper training. Make sure to identify the advantages of the new physical therapy EMR system and how it will make their jobs easier. A staff that looks forward to the process is more eager to learn and help facilitate the process.
Integration and Boundaries
The ideal EMR integrates easily within the normal office workflow and already existing software systems for a total practice management system. For a fully integrated documentation solution, the chosen EMR should be able to interface with labs, other healthcare providers and pharmacies, along with insurance providers and clearinghouses. Communication options to interact with patients should include phone, email, and text and voice messaging capabilities.
These new guidelines by Chhoda provide therapists with essential information when seeking an EMR to make the process progress smoothly. Implementation of physical therapy management software offers clinics the tools and technology to meet the demands and challenges of the 21st century practice. Physical therapy documentation software increases productivity, profitability and patient care. Fear of the unknown shouldn’t prevent clinics from implementing an EMR and robbing the practice of valuable new avenues for increasing revenues.
Chhoda’s office can be reached by phone at 201-535-4475. For more information, visit the website at 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.