Few documentation software systems are designed specifically for physical therapy practices. Most are created for hospitals and physicians, or by inventors with no idea about the special needs of a physical therapy practice. To simplify the selection process, international marketing expert and physical therapist, Nitin Chhoda, has released his top five tips for implementing documentation software.
Denville, NJ (PRWEB) August 19, 2012
“The temptation to believe all the hype surrounding documentation systems is great,” said Chhoda. “Electronic medical record (EMR) software systems offer many bells and whistles that look appealing, but have little substance or practical application.”
What are the requirements?
The expectation with physical therapy software is that it will be with the practice for years to come. Clinic owners need to ascertain what they want their documentation software to do now and in the years to come. The EMR should provide for the current requirements of the practice and contain the elements needed for continued growth.
Server-based or Web-based solutions?
One of the biggest questions facing practice owners is whether to select a web-based or server-based system. Chhoda advises therapists to choose a web-based system that utilizes computing in the cloud for value and security. There’s no need for clinic owners to purchase, install or maintain on-site servers, a project that can quickly run into thousands of dollars and require hiring IT personnel.
Is it easy to use?
It’s going to take time and training for everyone in the clinic to become proficient with new documentation software. Chhoda said practice owners should begin with the basics and build upon the knowledge that’s gained. Don’t try to learn every aspect of the system at once. It will only leave everyone feeling overwhelmed. Training is typically provided by the vendor and some offer online training modules that can have a clinic up and running in as little as 30 minutes.
Is flexibility in documentation and communication important?
Chhoda said therapists should take care to implement physical therapy documentation software that offers a superior level of flexibility for creating custom documents and communication options. Physical therapy clinics vary widely in their services and documentation software shouldn’t intrude on the workflow or radically change the way practices conduct business. The EMR should offer multiple means of communicating with patients, clearinghouses and payers, via a patient portal, mail and phone, along with text and voice messaging. EMR benefits are discuss further, here.
Are there enough support for the software?
The quality and reliability of vendors is a key issue when choosing documentation software. Bug fixes, updates, upgrade options and 24/7 technical support are essential. The vendor should also perform automatic backups of all information. Another factor to consider is the longevity of the vendor. If a provider goes out of business a few years in the future, therapists will be forced to purchase a new system and endure the installation and learning process all over again.
Implementation of an integrated documentation system takes time, training and patience. Armed with Chhoda’s new tips, the transition to an EMR will progress with fewer glitches and problems, making it easier for everyone to learn with less frustration. Choosing the right system, http://physicaltherapybillingsoftware.net/physical-therapy-billing-software/physical-therapy-billing-software-cases/, for the practice ensures it will function as needed for an enhanced level of patient care, reimbursement and communication for greater productivity and profitability.
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.
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