10 Advantages of an EHR
Once a provider finds an EHR system that works for them and the way they practice medicine, most providers begin to realize the advantages of electronic health records, including:
- Access from anywhere: Whether on call or vacation, if you have a cloud or Internet-based system, you can usually access your patient’s records anywhere you have WIFI/Internet or cellular data access.
- Current information: With links to SureScripts for current medications and notes with other providers, you have more accurate information to make better patient decisions.
- Reminders: By letting the system track patient compliance and due dates for health maintenance items, you can spend time counseling patients instead of scouring paperwork.
- Safety: The EHR can warn you about medication contraindications, outstanding orders, and abnormal vital signs.
- Speed up documentation: The EHR can start notes with relevant prior information and automate documentation of common exam findings and other notes – while still allowing the note to be customized.
- Ensure proper coding: Get paid for the level of service you’re providing and ensure billing is correct the first time.
- Improve revenue: Ensure all visits are coded and submitted to insurance and nothing is left on the table.
- Easily collaborate with other providers: Share information electronically and avoid the headaches of lost faxes.
- Improve patient communication: Easily share notes and lab results with patients.
- Easily participate in Medicare’s MACRA/MIPS program: Avoid large reimbursement penalties and potentially earn incentives.
Most EHRs provide some of these advantages. A good EHR provides all of them. A great EHR includes training and other resources to ensure you are receiving all the advantages.