Streamlining Workflow with Multi-Specialty EMR Software
EMR software for multi-specialty practices plays a crucial role in supporting healthcare teams that include providers from diverse specialties and backgrounds. Since the introduction of the Affordable Care Act, there has been a growing trend of primary care offices merging with mental health centers to deliver more integrated and holistic patient care.
Although this multi-specialty model improves patient satisfaction and fosters better interprofessional collaboration, it also presents challenges, particularly when selecting an electronic medical record (EMR) system that meets the diverse needs of such a varied clinical environment.
Generally, it’s advisable for group practices to choose one multi-specialty EMR as opposed to several single-specialty EMRs. Multi-specialty electronic medical records software is designed to address common issues faced by practices whose medical staff fall under different specialties. The systems are designed to streamline workflow by:
- Decreasing data entry errors;
- Reducing administrative tasks;
- Improving patient medical record security;
- Offering better patient care;
- Retrieving patient records swiftly, and
- Creating simple but thorough backups of data.
Key features to look for when choosing a multi-specialty system
Multi-specialty Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) are effective only if they incorporate specific software features. When selecting this type of EMR, healthcare providers should look for customizability and integration with a multi-specialty patient portal in addition to the standard EMR features (like medical record security, appointment scheduling, and excellent technical support services).
EMRs designed for multi-specialty practices should be highly flexible and capable of addressing the unique needs of multiple providers. Data should be easily accessible to all authorized users and automatically pulled from relevant sources, with pre-population where appropriate.
Look for a system with pre-installed billing codes, templates, letters, and patient forms specifically tailored to the specialties you need. Another great feature would be multi-specialty care plans that automatically generate patient education handouts based on different clinical diagnoses or conditions.
Integration with a multi-specialty patient portal enables patients to access their treatment plan and take a more active role in their healthcare. Typically, these patient portals enable patients to view their visit summaries and lab results, as well as request medication refills. Research has demonstrated that these portals increase both patient satisfaction and loyalty to a particular practice.
Selecting an effective, multi-specialty EMR with the best features enables healthcare providers to streamline their workflow and spend more time with their patients. For more information on selecting the best multi-specialty EMR, please contact us online or call us at (480) 782-1116.