4 Important Questions to Ask When Shopping for an EMR

Posted by Karley on 8 December 2011

Searching for an Electronic Medical/Health Record (EMR/EHR) can resemble the painstaking task of shopping for a new car. You need to be sure you make the right decision; it not only meets your needs but comes with a positive recommendations, boasts of reliability, and fits conveniently within your budget. It can be rather difficult to set aside time in your busy schedule to make this decision, but if you are able to answer these following questions, your EMR search may end more swiftly and successfully.

First and foremost, what does your practice need?

Most likely you need a way to schedule appointments and upload patient information in an organized manner. An EMR allows you to keep all of your files and documentation stored electronically, so there is no need to waste paper and increase the office filing cabinet collection. In addition, consider whether your office needs billing or ePrescribing. Some systems integrate these functions with your EMR and allow you create charges directly from the calendar. Find out which software systems can accomplish this, as this will decrease time for you or your billing staff and shorten the amount of time until you are paid. Using e-prescribing will prevent you from having to hand write prescriptions and allow you to order refills more efficiently. As a prescriber, you also may be eligible for the Medicare or Medicaid EHR incentive programs that rewards physicians with cash incentives for using a certified EMR system.

Secondly, what is your capacity?

Many systems differ in access abilities and requirements, but an important thing to consider when choosing an EMR is its security. Be sure to avoid any HIPAA violations or costly audits by making sure your office follows protocol. Calculate ahead of time the number of providers, part time and full time, office staff, IT personnel, etc., that need access to your system and be sure to inquire about the system’s use of a unique secured login and password. Not only will this ensure you remain HIPAA compliant, but it also prevents important data from being altered and guarantees that the system will function properly without error.

Thirdly, is your practice ready to make the EMR switch? If so, what is your implementation time frame?

This decision is one that is best made after a couple months’ consideration, exploration and discussion. Be sure to examine your office abilities and choose an EMR system that you and your staff are most happy with. Examine your budget and make sure it is a cost that you can afford. Consider staffing needs, recognizing that training and adjustment to this new system will take some time.

Fourthly, consider your general preferences for mobility and performance.

Not every EMR system is web-based or compatible for every electronic device. Ask yourself if you prefer a system that requires instillation on a local server or is completely web based. Are you planning on using a mac or PC, and would you use the system on your iPad or notebook? Would you like to access your system on your smartphone and what are the limitations of the system’s mobile application? All of these technical questions are important for evaluating your software options, because not all EMR systems may be able to function at these levels.

Ultimately, your search for an EMR needs to be based on your needs and desired features. Create a list that answers these questions and ask to see a demonstration of a product before you purchase. Research the benefits this new system would have for your practice and be sure to include your office staff in the decision making process. This search may seem daunting, but the rewards of finding the right EMR for your practice is worth your time and effort.