Medical transcription services are available for all specialties such as radiology, orthopedics, cardiology, and more.
With increase in the number of patients opting for quality medical care, hospitals and clinics find it hard to maintain their medical records and reports up to date. The pragmatic solution to this problem would be to rely on cost-effective and reliable medical transcription service. A number of transcription companies have now emerged in view of the increased demand for medical transcription in the industry.
The advantages of hiring a reputable transcription company are the low turnaround time, reduced expenditure and assured security. These companies offer services to all English speaking countries such as the US, Canada, UK and Australia. Transcription services are available for all specialties such as radiology, cardiology, orthopedics and more.
Medical transcriptionists are specially selected and trained to excel in their work. These professionals make use of the latest technology and infrastructure to offer the best possible service. Clients are assured of the quality and accuracy of the processed work as every medical transcription company would necessarily have a dedicated team of quality analysts and proofreaders. Peace of mind is assured as the work is processed and sent within the stipulated time period and security protocols comply with HIPAA
Cost-effective and reliable medical transcription service substantially reduces the workload of a physician or surgeon so that they get more time to focus on their patients instead of worrying about office work. It is advisable to assess the productivity and efficiency of a medical transcription company before engaging in a long term contract. This will allow you to frame a general idea of what you can expect form them in future. It is essential to ensure that they undertake any volume of work lest you find difficultly in the later stages.
Jan 20, 2010
CMS and ONC Issue Regulations Proposing a Definition of ?Meaningful Use? and Setting Standards for Electronic Health Record Incentive Program
The Centers for Medicare & Medicare Services (CMS) and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) encourage public comment on two regulations issued today that lay a foundation for improving quality, efficiency and safety through meaningful use of certified electronic health record (EHR) technology. The regulations will help implement the EHR incentive programs enacted under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act).
A proposed rule issued by CMS outlines proposed provisions governing the EHR incentive programs, including defining the central concept of “meaningful use” of EHR technology. An interim final regulation (IFR) issued by ONC sets initial standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria for EHR technology. Both regulations are open to public comment.
“Widespread adoption of electronic health records holds great promise for improving health care quality, efficiency, and patient safety,” said, National Coordinator for Health Information Technology David Blumenthal, M.D., M.P.P. “The Recovery Act’s financial incentives demonstrate Congress’ and the Administration’s commitment to help providers adopt and make meaningful use of EHR technology so they can give better care and their patients’ experience of care will improve. Over time, we believe the EHR incentive program under Medicare and Medicaid will accelerate and facilitate health information technology adoption by more individual providers and organizations throughout the health care system.”
“These regulations are closely linked,” said Charlene Frizzera, CMS acting administrator. “CMS’s proposed regulation would define and specify how to demonstrate ‘meaningful use’ of EHR technology, which is a prerequisite for receiving the Medicare incentive payments. Our rule also outlines the proposed payment methodologies for the Medicare and Medicaid EHR incentive programs. ONC’s regulation sets forth the standards and specifications that will enhance the interoperability, functionality, utility and security of health information technology.”
CMS and ONC worked closely to develop the two rules and received input from hundreds of technical subject matters experts, health care providers, and other key stakeholders. Numerous public meetings to solicit public comment were held by three Federal advisory committees: the National Committee on Vital and Health Statistics (NCVHS), the Health IT Policy Committee (HITPC), and the Health IT Standards Committee (HITSC). HITSC presented its final recommendations to the National Coordinator in August 2009. These recommendations, along with all other input were considered to help inform the development of the regulations announced today.
The IFR issued by ONC describes the standards that must be met by certified EHR technology to exchange healthcare information among providers and between providers and patients. This initial set of standards begins to define a common language to ensure accurate and secure health information exchange across different EHR systems. The IFR describes standard formats for clinical summaries and prescriptions; standard terms to describe clinical problems, procedures, laboratory tests, medications and allergies; and standards for the secure transportation of this information using the Internet.
CMS provides a 60-day comment period on the proposed rule. “The definition and requirements for demonstrating meaningful use of EHR technology are proposals. CMS welcomes and will give serious consideration to comments that improve our proposal while achieving the goals Congress established for the EHR incentive programs,” Frizzera said.
The CMS proposed rule and fact sheets, may be viewed at http://ping.fm/3uAaN
ONC’s interim final rule may be viewed at http://ping.fm/mnpWq In early 2010 ONC intends to issue a notice of proposed rulemaking related to the certification of health information technology.
A proposed rule issued by CMS outlines proposed provisions governing the EHR incentive programs, including defining the central concept of “meaningful use” of EHR technology. An interim final regulation (IFR) issued by ONC sets initial standards, implementation specifications, and certification criteria for EHR technology. Both regulations are open to public comment.
“Widespread adoption of electronic health records holds great promise for improving health care quality, efficiency, and patient safety,” said, National Coordinator for Health Information Technology David Blumenthal, M.D., M.P.P. “The Recovery Act’s financial incentives demonstrate Congress’ and the Administration’s commitment to help providers adopt and make meaningful use of EHR technology so they can give better care and their patients’ experience of care will improve. Over time, we believe the EHR incentive program under Medicare and Medicaid will accelerate and facilitate health information technology adoption by more individual providers and organizations throughout the health care system.”
“These regulations are closely linked,” said Charlene Frizzera, CMS acting administrator. “CMS’s proposed regulation would define and specify how to demonstrate ‘meaningful use’ of EHR technology, which is a prerequisite for receiving the Medicare incentive payments. Our rule also outlines the proposed payment methodologies for the Medicare and Medicaid EHR incentive programs. ONC’s regulation sets forth the standards and specifications that will enhance the interoperability, functionality, utility and security of health information technology.”
CMS and ONC worked closely to develop the two rules and received input from hundreds of technical subject matters experts, health care providers, and other key stakeholders. Numerous public meetings to solicit public comment were held by three Federal advisory committees: the National Committee on Vital and Health Statistics (NCVHS), the Health IT Policy Committee (HITPC), and the Health IT Standards Committee (HITSC). HITSC presented its final recommendations to the National Coordinator in August 2009. These recommendations, along with all other input were considered to help inform the development of the regulations announced today.
The IFR issued by ONC describes the standards that must be met by certified EHR technology to exchange healthcare information among providers and between providers and patients. This initial set of standards begins to define a common language to ensure accurate and secure health information exchange across different EHR systems. The IFR describes standard formats for clinical summaries and prescriptions; standard terms to describe clinical problems, procedures, laboratory tests, medications and allergies; and standards for the secure transportation of this information using the Internet.
CMS provides a 60-day comment period on the proposed rule. “The definition and requirements for demonstrating meaningful use of EHR technology are proposals. CMS welcomes and will give serious consideration to comments that improve our proposal while achieving the goals Congress established for the EHR incentive programs,” Frizzera said.
The CMS proposed rule and fact sheets, may be viewed at http://ping.fm/3uAaN
ONC’s interim final rule may be viewed at http://ping.fm/mnpWq In early 2010 ONC intends to issue a notice of proposed rulemaking related to the certification of health information technology.
Choosing The Right Software For Your Practice
If you have an in-house medical billing system and the necessary staff to handle the workflow, using medical billing software can dramatically improve the productivity and revenue cycle of your practice. Software can help automate the labor-intensive parts of the medical billing process and considerably speed up time-consuming (and error-prone) tasks such as patient data entry, claims submission, and payment application.
There are many good software applications that are available on the market and choosing the right one can be a daunting task if you don’t know what to look for.
Below are some features to check for when doing your research:
Medical Codes
One of the biggest advantages of using billing software is that you can eliminate cumbersome paper manuals on coding. Medical billing software gives you and your staff the ability to quickly search and insert billing codes with the simple click of a mouse. This vastly simplifies the process of claims preparation.
It is important however, to ensure that the medical billing software comes with an exhaustive and updated list of CPT, ICD, and HSPCS codes with a reliable system for periodically updating this list. Most software companies provide annual updates that can be bought for a small fee and installed either through a disc or downloaded from an online location.
It is also advisable to test-run the software to check for ease of use. The software should ideally offer a simple graphical interface for creating claims with easy search options and point-and-click functionality for choosing codes from a list.
HIPAA compliance
Apart from improving efficiency and reducing the number of errors, medical billing software can also help your practice meet HIPAA regulations related to individual privacy and security of healthcare information. There are many tools employed by different software development companies to meet these regulations. While these tools may not make your practice 100% HIPAA compliant, they can make a significant contribution. Most good medical billing software applications have several or all of the following tools built in:
Data encryption – This ensures that any information transferred online is intelligible only to the authorized recipients. 128-bit encryption is considered the industry standard.
Multi-level user authentication – This includes measures such as password protection, role-based access to restricted areas of the software/database, and automatic (timed) log off in case a workstation has been idle for some time.
Audit trails – Audit trails are records of all system activities including login information, files accessed, changes made to patient data, etc. These records are crucial for internal security audits.
Scheduled backups – These are necessary to prevent data loss. Most medical billing software comes with scheduled backup systems that allow you to periodically download critical patient data onto your hard drive or other secure location.
Claims Management
Electronic claims transmission not only speeds up the payment cycle but also reduces the number of rejected claims. Medical billing applications come with several time & cost saving features that can help practices improve their claims management system.
Visual Editors
Visual editors allow users to create and edit insurance claims forms through a graphical interface. Users can quickly add notes, make changes and submit claims at the click of a mouse.
Error Correction
This feature helps in minimizing rejected claims by highlighting missing information, mismatched ICD/CPT codes, and invalid insurance policy numbers, etc. before a claim is submitted for processing. This is a big time-saver and naturally reduces the possibility of claims being declined due to incorrect/incomplete forms.
Claims Submission
Submitting claims electronically can save hours of labor, reduce the number of rejected claims, and also speed up claims processing. Some insurance companies delay paper claims to up to 28 days, while electronically submitted claims can take just 24-48 hours.
Depending on the medical billing product you choose, there are several methods available for submitting claims electronically. One option is to send all claims to a clearinghouse. The clearinghouse will then forward the claims to the appropriate insurance carriers. This may, however, turn out to be expensive because of the per claim fee charged by the clearinghouse. Costs can be reduced by submitting claims directly to Medicare and Medicaid and processing the remaining through a clearinghouse.
Another option is direct online billing at the websites of the insurance carriers. Although there are no additional fees involved in this method, you must be an in-network provider with the relevant carrier to be able to submit claims at the carrier’s website.
Revenue Management
Medical billing software can significantly improve the payment cycle of any practice. This is through the account receivable module that comes with most software applications. This module helps practices keep track of payments received and payments outstanding. The software application also helps with faster payment applications to specific claims/charges, tracking how much of a payment remains to be applied, reporting payments receivable, automatic calculation of the write-off amounts, tracking billing, and other activities for improving the A/R cycle.
When choosing medical billing software, it is advisable to look for applications that either have these accounting features built-in or allow for easy integration with external accounting software such as Quicken or Peachtree. It’s also a good idea to thoroughly test the software to see if it has all the features required for your particular practice.
Medical Scheduling
Many software packages come with medical appointment schedulers that allow for easy management of patient appointments. Multiple features such as making or editing appointments, viewing daily, weekly, monthly appointments, viewing relevant patient demographics along with appointment details, scheduling recurring/multiple appointments, etc., can make these schedulers very useful for busy practices.
Trial period and Training
Most medical billing software developers offer trial versions of their software. Some also include on-site training for staff members who handle billing for a practice. These features give you the opportunity to not only check if the software has all the features advertised but also to test the suitability of the application for your particular practice. The usual trial period is of 30 days and provides you ample time to thoroughly test the software.
Technical support
As with all software applications, you and your staff would need ongoing technical assistance for the correct use and maintenance of the medical billing software. It’s therefore important to choose a vendor who can provide the necessary installation, training, and technical support. Most vendors provide an initial period of free support and then monthly or annual paid services.
There are many other features that can be compared and considered when deciding on the perfect medical billing software for your practice – software applications are constantly evolving to include more and better functionalities – but keeping these basic features in mind can help you make a reasonable choice.
There are many good software applications that are available on the market and choosing the right one can be a daunting task if you don’t know what to look for.
Below are some features to check for when doing your research:
Medical Codes
One of the biggest advantages of using billing software is that you can eliminate cumbersome paper manuals on coding. Medical billing software gives you and your staff the ability to quickly search and insert billing codes with the simple click of a mouse. This vastly simplifies the process of claims preparation.
It is important however, to ensure that the medical billing software comes with an exhaustive and updated list of CPT, ICD, and HSPCS codes with a reliable system for periodically updating this list. Most software companies provide annual updates that can be bought for a small fee and installed either through a disc or downloaded from an online location.
It is also advisable to test-run the software to check for ease of use. The software should ideally offer a simple graphical interface for creating claims with easy search options and point-and-click functionality for choosing codes from a list.
HIPAA compliance
Apart from improving efficiency and reducing the number of errors, medical billing software can also help your practice meet HIPAA regulations related to individual privacy and security of healthcare information. There are many tools employed by different software development companies to meet these regulations. While these tools may not make your practice 100% HIPAA compliant, they can make a significant contribution. Most good medical billing software applications have several or all of the following tools built in:
Data encryption – This ensures that any information transferred online is intelligible only to the authorized recipients. 128-bit encryption is considered the industry standard.
Multi-level user authentication – This includes measures such as password protection, role-based access to restricted areas of the software/database, and automatic (timed) log off in case a workstation has been idle for some time.
Audit trails – Audit trails are records of all system activities including login information, files accessed, changes made to patient data, etc. These records are crucial for internal security audits.
Scheduled backups – These are necessary to prevent data loss. Most medical billing software comes with scheduled backup systems that allow you to periodically download critical patient data onto your hard drive or other secure location.
Claims Management
Electronic claims transmission not only speeds up the payment cycle but also reduces the number of rejected claims. Medical billing applications come with several time & cost saving features that can help practices improve their claims management system.
Visual Editors
Visual editors allow users to create and edit insurance claims forms through a graphical interface. Users can quickly add notes, make changes and submit claims at the click of a mouse.
Error Correction
This feature helps in minimizing rejected claims by highlighting missing information, mismatched ICD/CPT codes, and invalid insurance policy numbers, etc. before a claim is submitted for processing. This is a big time-saver and naturally reduces the possibility of claims being declined due to incorrect/incomplete forms.
Claims Submission
Submitting claims electronically can save hours of labor, reduce the number of rejected claims, and also speed up claims processing. Some insurance companies delay paper claims to up to 28 days, while electronically submitted claims can take just 24-48 hours.
Depending on the medical billing product you choose, there are several methods available for submitting claims electronically. One option is to send all claims to a clearinghouse. The clearinghouse will then forward the claims to the appropriate insurance carriers. This may, however, turn out to be expensive because of the per claim fee charged by the clearinghouse. Costs can be reduced by submitting claims directly to Medicare and Medicaid and processing the remaining through a clearinghouse.
Another option is direct online billing at the websites of the insurance carriers. Although there are no additional fees involved in this method, you must be an in-network provider with the relevant carrier to be able to submit claims at the carrier’s website.
Revenue Management
Medical billing software can significantly improve the payment cycle of any practice. This is through the account receivable module that comes with most software applications. This module helps practices keep track of payments received and payments outstanding. The software application also helps with faster payment applications to specific claims/charges, tracking how much of a payment remains to be applied, reporting payments receivable, automatic calculation of the write-off amounts, tracking billing, and other activities for improving the A/R cycle.
When choosing medical billing software, it is advisable to look for applications that either have these accounting features built-in or allow for easy integration with external accounting software such as Quicken or Peachtree. It’s also a good idea to thoroughly test the software to see if it has all the features required for your particular practice.
Medical Scheduling
Many software packages come with medical appointment schedulers that allow for easy management of patient appointments. Multiple features such as making or editing appointments, viewing daily, weekly, monthly appointments, viewing relevant patient demographics along with appointment details, scheduling recurring/multiple appointments, etc., can make these schedulers very useful for busy practices.
Trial period and Training
Most medical billing software developers offer trial versions of their software. Some also include on-site training for staff members who handle billing for a practice. These features give you the opportunity to not only check if the software has all the features advertised but also to test the suitability of the application for your particular practice. The usual trial period is of 30 days and provides you ample time to thoroughly test the software.
Technical support
As with all software applications, you and your staff would need ongoing technical assistance for the correct use and maintenance of the medical billing software. It’s therefore important to choose a vendor who can provide the necessary installation, training, and technical support. Most vendors provide an initial period of free support and then monthly or annual paid services.
There are many other features that can be compared and considered when deciding on the perfect medical billing software for your practice – software applications are constantly evolving to include more and better functionalities – but keeping these basic features in mind can help you make a reasonable choice.
Survey finds 4 in 10 doctors use an EHR
By, Molly Merrill
ATLANTA – Four of every 10 office-based physicians use electronic health records, according to 2009 preliminary estimates by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The estimates are based on the CDC’s National Ambulatory Medical Survey (NAMCS), an annual nationally representative survey of patient visits to office-based physicians that collects information on the use of electronic medical records or electronic health records. A supplementary mail survey was also conducted in 2008 and 2009.
According to the estimates for 2009, 43.9 percent of physicians reported using full or partial EMR/EHR systems (not including systems used solely for billing) in office-based practices. About 20.5 percent reported having systems that meet the criteria of a basic system, and 6.3 percent reported using a fully functional system.
A basic system is defined as having patient demographic information, patient problem lists, clinical notes, orders for prescriptions and viewing laboratory and imaging results. Systems defined as fully functional also include medical history and follow-up, orders for tests, prescription and test orders sent electronically, warnings of drug interactions or contraindications, highlighting of out-of-range test levels and reminders for guideline-based interventions.
The survey indicates that from 2007-2008, physicians’ use of any EMR system increased by 18.7 percent and the percentage of physicians reporting having systems that meet the criteria of a basic system increased by 41.5 percent. Researchers conclude that the 2009 preliminary estimates did not change significantly from 2008.
Researchers say data from the 2009 NAMCS will be combined with the mail survey to obtain a final 2009 estimate.
ATLANTA – Four of every 10 office-based physicians use electronic health records, according to 2009 preliminary estimates by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The estimates are based on the CDC’s National Ambulatory Medical Survey (NAMCS), an annual nationally representative survey of patient visits to office-based physicians that collects information on the use of electronic medical records or electronic health records. A supplementary mail survey was also conducted in 2008 and 2009.
According to the estimates for 2009, 43.9 percent of physicians reported using full or partial EMR/EHR systems (not including systems used solely for billing) in office-based practices. About 20.5 percent reported having systems that meet the criteria of a basic system, and 6.3 percent reported using a fully functional system.
A basic system is defined as having patient demographic information, patient problem lists, clinical notes, orders for prescriptions and viewing laboratory and imaging results. Systems defined as fully functional also include medical history and follow-up, orders for tests, prescription and test orders sent electronically, warnings of drug interactions or contraindications, highlighting of out-of-range test levels and reminders for guideline-based interventions.
The survey indicates that from 2007-2008, physicians’ use of any EMR system increased by 18.7 percent and the percentage of physicians reporting having systems that meet the criteria of a basic system increased by 41.5 percent. Researchers conclude that the 2009 preliminary estimates did not change significantly from 2008.
Researchers say data from the 2009 NAMCS will be combined with the mail survey to obtain a final 2009 estimate.
Jan 13, 2010
HIMSS Analytics looking to go international with its EMR Adoption Model
CHICAGO – HIMSS Analytics EMR Adoption Model is gaining interest internationally, according to Dave Garets, the company’s CEO and president.
HIMSS Analytics, a not-for-profit subsidiary of the Chicago-based Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, collects IT data on every non-federal hospital in the country and some hospitals in Canada through an annual study that tracks the implementation and adoption of electronic medical record applications.
Garets said the HIMSS Analytics EMR Model, which rates hospitals on a scale from 0 to 7, is garnering interest in some European and Middle Eastern countries and Australia. With slight modifications, he said, the model has the ability to work on an international level.
“The model has gotten international acceptance because it is a standard way of doing it,” he said. “It makes sense to most everybody.”
When data indicates a hospital has reached Stage 6, HIMSS Analytics contacts the CIO to make an independent validation. Garets said half of those phone calls lead to a determination that the hospital isn’t at Stage 6 yet.
“What’s striking about Stage 6 hospitals is the amount of different vendors that are represented. It’s a very nice thing because it shows it’s not the software, it’s what you do with it,” said Garets.
When a hospital’s data suggests it has reached Stage 7 – the highest level of the model – HIMSS Analytics performs an on-site visit. Garets said nothing is off limits during this visit, and HIMSS Analytics officials have the freedom to look at the hospital’s IT systems in action.
Garets said only one hospital has not met the Stage 7 requirements after a site visit.
“As more healthcare organizations move toward EMR implementation, the Stage 7 hospitals offer valuable best practices focused on using EMR applications to improve patient safety, clinical outcomes and patient care delivery efficiency,” said Mike Davis, HIMSS Analytics’ executive vice president.
HIMSS Analytics, a not-for-profit subsidiary of the Chicago-based Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, collects IT data on every non-federal hospital in the country and some hospitals in Canada through an annual study that tracks the implementation and adoption of electronic medical record applications.
Garets said the HIMSS Analytics EMR Model, which rates hospitals on a scale from 0 to 7, is garnering interest in some European and Middle Eastern countries and Australia. With slight modifications, he said, the model has the ability to work on an international level.
“The model has gotten international acceptance because it is a standard way of doing it,” he said. “It makes sense to most everybody.”
When data indicates a hospital has reached Stage 6, HIMSS Analytics contacts the CIO to make an independent validation. Garets said half of those phone calls lead to a determination that the hospital isn’t at Stage 6 yet.
“What’s striking about Stage 6 hospitals is the amount of different vendors that are represented. It’s a very nice thing because it shows it’s not the software, it’s what you do with it,” said Garets.
When a hospital’s data suggests it has reached Stage 7 – the highest level of the model – HIMSS Analytics performs an on-site visit. Garets said nothing is off limits during this visit, and HIMSS Analytics officials have the freedom to look at the hospital’s IT systems in action.
Garets said only one hospital has not met the Stage 7 requirements after a site visit.
“As more healthcare organizations move toward EMR implementation, the Stage 7 hospitals offer valuable best practices focused on using EMR applications to improve patient safety, clinical outcomes and patient care delivery efficiency,” said Mike Davis, HIMSS Analytics’ executive vice president.
Study: Implementing EHR, e-prescribing is challenging, but beneficial over time
Benefits from EHR and e-prescribing investments come under very broad, diverse categories but are very individual and specific to the retrospective context of an investment, according to a study by the European Commission. There is no single correct strategy for implementing EHRs and e-prescribing systems, yet the results of the study give grounds for optimism in the success, value and deployment of interoperable EHR and e-prescribing systems after a few years.
The European Commission investigated the qualitative socio-economic impact of interoperable EHR and e-prescribing systems in 11 practice cases in Europe, the U.S. and Israel to provide insight into factors surrounding successful EHR and e-prescribing deployment. Nine of the cases also underwent a quantitative evaluation of their socio-economic impacts.
“Decisions to invest in EHR and e-prescribing systems should [involve the adoption of] strategies that fit their local or regional setting and be designed to succeed by meeting clearly identified, measurable needs,” concluded the Commission.
The socio-economic gain to society from interoperable EHR and e-prescribing systems eventually exceed the costs, according to the commision. While it found that a typical development can reach an annual socio-economic return (SER) of up to 400 percent, it can take at least four–and up to nine–years before initiatives produce their first positive annual SER.
According to the European Commission, it can take an average of nine years to realize a cumulative net benefit. “Plans to invest in EHRs and e-prescribing systems should have a clear focus on achieving changes at the right time,” the commission reported. Longer time scales are generally associated with a lower risk of failure, according to the report.
In the study, the average distribution of costs were allocated from citizens (2 percent), providers (11 percent), health provider organizations (80 percent) and third parties (7 percent). The average distribution of benefits were dispursed between citizens (17 percent), providers (17 percent), health provider organizations (61 percent) and third parties (5 percent).
“From a systematic perspective, no single or small group of benefits comprise a sufficient reason for investment in EHR and e-prescribing systems,” the report found.
The total value of invested financial and non-financial resources at the evaluated sites was extremely wide with 42 percent of these expenditures on information and communication technologies.
According to the organization, an opportunity exists for all EHR and e-prescribing systems to facilitate a productive dialogue between users and information and communication technology experts before spending large sums of money on actual solutions. “Continouous engagement with healthcare professionals from the outset is essential and time-consuming, but must not be avoided,” stated the report. “If it is, it has bigger costs downstream.”
Another potential opportunity is to use interoperability as a prime driver of benefits. “Without the meaningful hearing and exchange of information, the gains would be marginal and not justify the cost of investments,” said the report.
The European Commission investigated the qualitative socio-economic impact of interoperable EHR and e-prescribing systems in 11 practice cases in Europe, the U.S. and Israel to provide insight into factors surrounding successful EHR and e-prescribing deployment. Nine of the cases also underwent a quantitative evaluation of their socio-economic impacts.
“Decisions to invest in EHR and e-prescribing systems should [involve the adoption of] strategies that fit their local or regional setting and be designed to succeed by meeting clearly identified, measurable needs,” concluded the Commission.
The socio-economic gain to society from interoperable EHR and e-prescribing systems eventually exceed the costs, according to the commision. While it found that a typical development can reach an annual socio-economic return (SER) of up to 400 percent, it can take at least four–and up to nine–years before initiatives produce their first positive annual SER.
According to the European Commission, it can take an average of nine years to realize a cumulative net benefit. “Plans to invest in EHRs and e-prescribing systems should have a clear focus on achieving changes at the right time,” the commission reported. Longer time scales are generally associated with a lower risk of failure, according to the report.
In the study, the average distribution of costs were allocated from citizens (2 percent), providers (11 percent), health provider organizations (80 percent) and third parties (7 percent). The average distribution of benefits were dispursed between citizens (17 percent), providers (17 percent), health provider organizations (61 percent) and third parties (5 percent).
“From a systematic perspective, no single or small group of benefits comprise a sufficient reason for investment in EHR and e-prescribing systems,” the report found.
The total value of invested financial and non-financial resources at the evaluated sites was extremely wide with 42 percent of these expenditures on information and communication technologies.
According to the organization, an opportunity exists for all EHR and e-prescribing systems to facilitate a productive dialogue between users and information and communication technology experts before spending large sums of money on actual solutions. “Continouous engagement with healthcare professionals from the outset is essential and time-consuming, but must not be avoided,” stated the report. “If it is, it has bigger costs downstream.”
Another potential opportunity is to use interoperability as a prime driver of benefits. “Without the meaningful hearing and exchange of information, the gains would be marginal and not justify the cost of investments,” said the report.
Jan 12, 2010
43.9% of Office-Based Physicians Used EHRs in 2009, CDC Finds
More than 40% of office-based physicians used electronic health record systems in 2009, according to the latest National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey from CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics, MedPage Today reports.
The latest findings suggest that EHR adoption has increased significantly during the past decade, up from 18% in 2001.
Survey Details
For the report, NCHS interviewed 3,200 physicians and sent mail surveys to an additional 2,000 doctors (Walker, MedPage Today, 1/8).
Researchers used the surveys to estimate that 43.9% of office-based physicians were using EHRs in 2009. Of those, they note that:
* 20.5% reported having EHRs that included basic features such as clinical notes, laboratory results and prescription orders; and
* 6.3% reported using fully functional EHRs that included additional features such as digital reminders, drug interaction alerts and electronic order transmissions (Merrill, Healthcare IT News, 1/11).
2008 Survey
In 2008, the survey found that:
* 17% of physicians had basic EHRs; and
* 4.4% had fully functional systems (MedPage Today, 1/8).
The report notes that the number of physicians using any EHR system increased by 18.7% between 2007 and 2008. During the same period, the number of physicians using basic systems increased by 41.5% (Healthcare IT News, 1/11).
The latest findings suggest that EHR adoption has increased significantly during the past decade, up from 18% in 2001.
Survey Details
For the report, NCHS interviewed 3,200 physicians and sent mail surveys to an additional 2,000 doctors (Walker, MedPage Today, 1/8).
Researchers used the surveys to estimate that 43.9% of office-based physicians were using EHRs in 2009. Of those, they note that:
* 20.5% reported having EHRs that included basic features such as clinical notes, laboratory results and prescription orders; and
* 6.3% reported using fully functional EHRs that included additional features such as digital reminders, drug interaction alerts and electronic order transmissions (Merrill, Healthcare IT News, 1/11).
2008 Survey
In 2008, the survey found that:
* 17% of physicians had basic EHRs; and
* 4.4% had fully functional systems (MedPage Today, 1/8).
The report notes that the number of physicians using any EHR system increased by 18.7% between 2007 and 2008. During the same period, the number of physicians using basic systems increased by 41.5% (Healthcare IT News, 1/11).
Advantages of Medical Billing Software
Most companies use computers these days to track their business expenses, income, employees, customers and other relevant information. While many companies use software were all familiar with to track their business information, some companies decide to use more specialized software that is tailored to their specific kind of business.
Billing software has become a common place in many if not most doctors offices and hospitals today. Even though it can be difficult to change how we do things, the advantages of using billing software far outweigh any challenges we may find in the change.
For example, with software, fewer mistakes are made because it fixes mistakes before the invoices or claims are sent out. In addition, using the same billing, we can schedule appointments and access patient records with the push of a button.
billing software saves time as well as space in the office by reducing the unfathomable amount of paperwork and money, simply by reducing human error. As if that werent enough, by keeping records on a computer, especially online, one drastically reduces the risk of losing important records in a fire or other disaster.
Another advantage to medical billing software is the ability to access records from other offices; offices that are affiliated with the office where the care took place can pull up the records from another computer. Medical billing software enables the entire office to run smoother and more efficiently. This translates into better care for the patients and an easier job for the employees.
If you are looking to purchase medical billing software you can easily locate a vendor that deals with medical billing software online. What may not be so easy is determining what vendor offers you the best price on medical billing software and what vendor supplies enough support to accompany the product. Consequently, knowing what questions to ask the vendor will help you determine which vendor you should purchase your medical billing software from.
When you decide upon a certain vendor, dont hesitate to ask questions about the medical billing software they are offering. It is important to remember that the software is meant to make your office run more efficiently, not create unwarranted hassles. Do bear in mind however, that until the office employees get used to the functionality of the medical billing software purchased, little snafus may crop up. See if the vendor supplies training for the medical billing software you are considering and also ask what kind of support accompanies the product.
Billing software has become a common place in many if not most doctors offices and hospitals today. Even though it can be difficult to change how we do things, the advantages of using billing software far outweigh any challenges we may find in the change.
For example, with software, fewer mistakes are made because it fixes mistakes before the invoices or claims are sent out. In addition, using the same billing, we can schedule appointments and access patient records with the push of a button.
billing software saves time as well as space in the office by reducing the unfathomable amount of paperwork and money, simply by reducing human error. As if that werent enough, by keeping records on a computer, especially online, one drastically reduces the risk of losing important records in a fire or other disaster.
Another advantage to medical billing software is the ability to access records from other offices; offices that are affiliated with the office where the care took place can pull up the records from another computer. Medical billing software enables the entire office to run smoother and more efficiently. This translates into better care for the patients and an easier job for the employees.
If you are looking to purchase medical billing software you can easily locate a vendor that deals with medical billing software online. What may not be so easy is determining what vendor offers you the best price on medical billing software and what vendor supplies enough support to accompany the product. Consequently, knowing what questions to ask the vendor will help you determine which vendor you should purchase your medical billing software from.
When you decide upon a certain vendor, dont hesitate to ask questions about the medical billing software they are offering. It is important to remember that the software is meant to make your office run more efficiently, not create unwarranted hassles. Do bear in mind however, that until the office employees get used to the functionality of the medical billing software purchased, little snafus may crop up. See if the vendor supplies training for the medical billing software you are considering and also ask what kind of support accompanies the product.
Officials Announce ?Meaningful Use,? EHR Certification Criteria
Last week, CMS released proposed regulations defining the “meaningful use” of electronic health records, Reuters reports (Wutkowski/Heavey, Reuters, 12/31/09).
In addition, the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT released an interim final rule describing the required certification standards for EHR technology (Simmons, HealthLeaders Media, 12/31/09).
Under the 2009 federal economic stimulus package, health care providers who demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHRs will qualify for incentive payments through Medicaid and Medicare.
Officials will offer a 60-day public comment period after both regulations are published in the Federal Register on Jan. 13. The interim final rule on EHR certification is scheduled to take effect 30 days after publication (Goedert, Health Data Management, 12/30/09).
Phased Approach to Meaningful Use
CMS’ plan proposes phasing in meaningful use requirements over three stages between now and 2013.
The first stage of the meaningful use criteria emphasizes:
* Collecting electronic health data in coded formats;
* Implementing clinical decision support tools;
* Reporting clinical quality measures and public health data; and
* Using EHR data to track conditions and coordinate care (Monegain, Healthcare IT News, 12/30/09).
The criteria call for physicians to submit at least 80% of their orders electronically and for hospitals to submit at least 10% of orders electronically. The proposed rules also call for health care providers to use EHRs to check for potential drug interactions (Perrone, AP/San Francisco Chronicle, 12/30/09).
In addition, the rule requires health care providers to provide patients with electronic copies of their medical records within 48 hours of a request (Hensley, “Shots,” NPR, 12/31/09).
A list of Stage 1 criteria for physicians and a list of Stage 1 criteria for hospitals are available from Healthcare IT News (Healthcare IT News, 12/30/09).
The Stage 2 criteria are expected to focus on structured data exchange and continuous quality improvement. CMS is scheduled to release the second phase criteria by the end of 2011.
The Stage 3 criteria are expected to center on advanced decision support and population health. CMS is scheduled to publish the third phase criteria by the end of 2013.
Certification Criteria for EHRs
ONC’s interim final rule outlines the technical standards and features that EHR systems must include to receive certification for meaningful use.
The rule includes:
* Standard formats for clinical summaries and prescriptions;
* Standard terms to describe clinical problems, laboratory tests, medications and procedures; and
* Standards for secure transmission of online data.
The rule focuses solely on standards for certified EHRs. Later in 2010, ONC is scheduled to release additional guidance on the process for EHR certification.
Reduced Budget for Incentive Payments
When federal officials released the two new regulations, they also announced that the government might distribute less money than anticipated for the incentive payment program.
Initially, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that total federal incentive payouts could reach $34 billion (Mosquera, Government Health IT, 12/30/09).
However, officials last week said the outlays are likely to range from $14.1 billion to $27.3 billion.
They added that the government might pursue further budget revisions after evaluating the popularity of the incentive payment program (Schulte/Schwartz, Huffington Post Investigative Fund, 12/30/09).
In addition, the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT released an interim final rule describing the required certification standards for EHR technology (Simmons, HealthLeaders Media, 12/31/09).
Under the 2009 federal economic stimulus package, health care providers who demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHRs will qualify for incentive payments through Medicaid and Medicare.
Officials will offer a 60-day public comment period after both regulations are published in the Federal Register on Jan. 13. The interim final rule on EHR certification is scheduled to take effect 30 days after publication (Goedert, Health Data Management, 12/30/09).
Phased Approach to Meaningful Use
CMS’ plan proposes phasing in meaningful use requirements over three stages between now and 2013.
The first stage of the meaningful use criteria emphasizes:
* Collecting electronic health data in coded formats;
* Implementing clinical decision support tools;
* Reporting clinical quality measures and public health data; and
* Using EHR data to track conditions and coordinate care (Monegain, Healthcare IT News, 12/30/09).
The criteria call for physicians to submit at least 80% of their orders electronically and for hospitals to submit at least 10% of orders electronically. The proposed rules also call for health care providers to use EHRs to check for potential drug interactions (Perrone, AP/San Francisco Chronicle, 12/30/09).
In addition, the rule requires health care providers to provide patients with electronic copies of their medical records within 48 hours of a request (Hensley, “Shots,” NPR, 12/31/09).
A list of Stage 1 criteria for physicians and a list of Stage 1 criteria for hospitals are available from Healthcare IT News (Healthcare IT News, 12/30/09).
The Stage 2 criteria are expected to focus on structured data exchange and continuous quality improvement. CMS is scheduled to release the second phase criteria by the end of 2011.
The Stage 3 criteria are expected to center on advanced decision support and population health. CMS is scheduled to publish the third phase criteria by the end of 2013.
Certification Criteria for EHRs
ONC’s interim final rule outlines the technical standards and features that EHR systems must include to receive certification for meaningful use.
The rule includes:
* Standard formats for clinical summaries and prescriptions;
* Standard terms to describe clinical problems, laboratory tests, medications and procedures; and
* Standards for secure transmission of online data.
The rule focuses solely on standards for certified EHRs. Later in 2010, ONC is scheduled to release additional guidance on the process for EHR certification.
Reduced Budget for Incentive Payments
When federal officials released the two new regulations, they also announced that the government might distribute less money than anticipated for the incentive payment program.
Initially, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that total federal incentive payouts could reach $34 billion (Mosquera, Government Health IT, 12/30/09).
However, officials last week said the outlays are likely to range from $14.1 billion to $27.3 billion.
They added that the government might pursue further budget revisions after evaluating the popularity of the incentive payment program (Schulte/Schwartz, Huffington Post Investigative Fund, 12/30/09).
Some of the Legal Issues with Electronic Medical Records
A good electronic medical records system must be able to demonstrate a process for maintaining the legal integrity of its records. Here we cover some of the top considerations when moving your practice from paper to digital.
As a practice makes the transition from paper to electronic medical records, they may encounter a variety of legal concerns. Some important decisions must be made to ensure the legal integrity of digital records. Additionally, there will be some surprises in store regarding compliance, privacy, and security. In matters of electronic medical records, the best offense is a good defense. Here are some issues to consider:
When you write a medical exam on a piece of paper and sign it, you’ve created a legal document. By now you are probably well aware of the importance of documentation, and the dangers which alterations to medical records invite. A paper chart’s integrity is usually rather simple to determine. However, an electronic chart is often more complicated. According to the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, an electronic record must be stored in a legally correct manner - otherwise it may be considered hearsay, challenged as legally invalid.
So, why is this important? Well, if your electronic medical records don’t meet the Federal or State requirements for a medical record, payors can deny a claim. Or, even worse, you may subject your practice to an increased risk of an adverse outcome in litigation. It’s not only important to be sure your electronic medical records are not altered, but you also need the ability to demonstrate the procedures which prove this fact.
How do you make sure an electronic record cannot be altered? The ideal system must balance the user’s desires, including ability to correct mistakes and make changes, with the legal integrity of the record itself.
- Does your EMR system “time stamp” each entry to produce an audit trail? This could include an unalterable record of every entry and event in order to prove the validity of the record.
- Does it restrict access to certain templates or features? You wouldn’t want a front desk employee changing patients’ intraocular pressures, for example.
- Does the system keep track of which person documented what? You wouldn’t want your name associated with another user’s entry.
- Does it have a strict but not too time-consuming security protocol? Some solutions include alphanumeric passwords that are changed periodically, biometric access, and automatic logout after a period of inactivity.
- Does it have a secure yet practical “lock-out” feature? A typical one might allow the doctor to make changes at the end of the day, but after 24 hours the record locks. This may seem a bit harsh, but it could actually serve to protect you by preventing unauthorized changes.
As a practice makes the transition from paper to electronic medical records, they may encounter a variety of legal concerns. Some important decisions must be made to ensure the legal integrity of digital records. Additionally, there will be some surprises in store regarding compliance, privacy, and security. In matters of electronic medical records, the best offense is a good defense. Here are some issues to consider:
When you write a medical exam on a piece of paper and sign it, you’ve created a legal document. By now you are probably well aware of the importance of documentation, and the dangers which alterations to medical records invite. A paper chart’s integrity is usually rather simple to determine. However, an electronic chart is often more complicated. According to the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, an electronic record must be stored in a legally correct manner - otherwise it may be considered hearsay, challenged as legally invalid.
So, why is this important? Well, if your electronic medical records don’t meet the Federal or State requirements for a medical record, payors can deny a claim. Or, even worse, you may subject your practice to an increased risk of an adverse outcome in litigation. It’s not only important to be sure your electronic medical records are not altered, but you also need the ability to demonstrate the procedures which prove this fact.
How do you make sure an electronic record cannot be altered? The ideal system must balance the user’s desires, including ability to correct mistakes and make changes, with the legal integrity of the record itself.
- Does your EMR system “time stamp” each entry to produce an audit trail? This could include an unalterable record of every entry and event in order to prove the validity of the record.
- Does it restrict access to certain templates or features? You wouldn’t want a front desk employee changing patients’ intraocular pressures, for example.
- Does the system keep track of which person documented what? You wouldn’t want your name associated with another user’s entry.
- Does it have a strict but not too time-consuming security protocol? Some solutions include alphanumeric passwords that are changed periodically, biometric access, and automatic logout after a period of inactivity.
- Does it have a secure yet practical “lock-out” feature? A typical one might allow the doctor to make changes at the end of the day, but after 24 hours the record locks. This may seem a bit harsh, but it could actually serve to protect you by preventing unauthorized changes.
Jan 11, 2010
What is E-prescribing and What are the benefits?
E-prescribing Overview:
E-prescribing has been described as the solution to improved patient safety and reducing sky-rocketing medication costs. It is estimated that approximately 7,000 deaths occur each year in the United States due to medication errors. These errors are predominately due to hand-writing illegibility, wrong dosing, missed drug-drug or drug-allergy reactions. With approximately 3 billion prescriptions written annually, which constitutes one of the largest paper-based processes in the United States, the writing of prescriptions can be streamlined and efficient by using an e-prescribing system.
What is e-prescribing?
E-prescribing is simply an electronic way to generate prescriptions through an automated data-entry process utilizing e-prescribing software and a transmission network which links to participating pharmacies.
1. Improved patient safety and overall quality of care:
* Illegibility from hand-written prescriptions is eliminated, decreasing the risk of medication errors and decreasing liability risks.
* Warning and Alert systems are provided at the point of prescribing: It has been documented that medication errors are often the result of inadequate access to current drug reference information. E-prescribing systems can provide an overall medication management process through drug utilization review (DUR) programs. DUR programs perform checks against the patient’s current medications for drug-drug interactions, drug-allergy interactions, diagnoses, body weight, age, drug appropriateness, correct dosing; contraindications, adverse reactions, duplicate therapy alert etc. and alerts the provider if interactions are found. E-prescribing software can also include such drug reference software programs as ePocrates Rx. Pro and the PDR.
* Access to patient’s medical history. Knowing the patient’s medical history at the time of prescribing can serve as an alert to drug inappropriateness.
2. Reduces or eliminates phone calls and call-backs to pharmacies. Physician offices receive over 150 million call-backs from pharmacies with questions, clarifications and refill requests. According to HIMSS article on e-prescribing under Topics and Tools at their website almost 30 percent of the 3 billion prescriptions written annually require a call backs. This equals 900 million prescription-related telephone calls annually1.
3. Eliminates faxes to pharmacies.
4. Streamlines the refill’s requests and authorization processes. Refill authorization from the pharmacy can be a completely automated process and refills can usually be generated in one click. The pharmacist generates a refill request/authorization that is delivered through the network to the provider’s system, the provider then reviews the request, approves or denies the refill and the pharmacy system is immediately updated.
5. Increases patient compliance. It is estimated that 20% of paper-based prescription orders go unfilled by the patient. E-prescribing systems expedite the filling of prescription at the pharmacy and drug literature can be printed for patients as well.
6. Improves Formulary adherence. By checking with healthcare formularies at point-of-care, generic substitutions and generic first-line therapy choices are encouraged thus reducing patient costs.
7. Increases patient convenience by reducing patient trips to the pharmacy and reducing wait times.
8. Offers true Provider Mobility Full mobility can be attained when using a wireless network to write or authorize prescriptions anytime from anywhere.
9. Improves reporting ability. Query reporting may be performed which would be impossible with a paper prescription system. Common examples of such reporting would be: finding all patients who have had a particular medication prescribed to them during a drug recall, the frequency of medication prescribed by certain providers etc..
Note: controlled substances are currently not permitted to be filled via electronic means. If a user attempts to send a controlled substance electronically – a system message informs the user that this medication can not be filled this way and offers options to print or fax.
What your practice needs to do to get started e-prescribing:
1. Decide whether you wish to choose a stand-alone e-prescription software or a full EMR system which includes e-prescribing functionality.
2. Choose an e-prescribing software vendor. The e-prescribing vendor will need to utilize a company which supplies the electronic prescribing network (hub or gateway for transmissions). There are a few different e-prescription networking companies. Among the industry leaders are SureScripts (http://surescripts.com/), RxHub (http://www.rxhub.net/index.html), and ProxyMed (http://www.proxymed.com/). It is unlikely that physicians would have any reason to have direct contact with the electronic networking vendor. SureScripts, the nation’s largest electronic prescribing network, provides a true, seamless electronic connection between physician offices and pharmacies. This network provides secure and reliable two-way transmissions between physicians and pharmacies. More than 85% of chain and independent pharmacies have tested and certified their systems to connect to the SureScript electronic prescribing network.
3. Install an internet connection; high speed is highly recommended.
4. Purchase hardware such as desktop PC’s, laptops, pocket PC’s, tablet PC’s , PDA’s utilizing a wired or wireless network.
E-prescribing has been described as the solution to improved patient safety and reducing sky-rocketing medication costs. It is estimated that approximately 7,000 deaths occur each year in the United States due to medication errors. These errors are predominately due to hand-writing illegibility, wrong dosing, missed drug-drug or drug-allergy reactions. With approximately 3 billion prescriptions written annually, which constitutes one of the largest paper-based processes in the United States, the writing of prescriptions can be streamlined and efficient by using an e-prescribing system.
What is e-prescribing?
E-prescribing is simply an electronic way to generate prescriptions through an automated data-entry process utilizing e-prescribing software and a transmission network which links to participating pharmacies.
1. Improved patient safety and overall quality of care:
* Illegibility from hand-written prescriptions is eliminated, decreasing the risk of medication errors and decreasing liability risks.
* Warning and Alert systems are provided at the point of prescribing: It has been documented that medication errors are often the result of inadequate access to current drug reference information. E-prescribing systems can provide an overall medication management process through drug utilization review (DUR) programs. DUR programs perform checks against the patient’s current medications for drug-drug interactions, drug-allergy interactions, diagnoses, body weight, age, drug appropriateness, correct dosing; contraindications, adverse reactions, duplicate therapy alert etc. and alerts the provider if interactions are found. E-prescribing software can also include such drug reference software programs as ePocrates Rx. Pro and the PDR.
* Access to patient’s medical history. Knowing the patient’s medical history at the time of prescribing can serve as an alert to drug inappropriateness.
2. Reduces or eliminates phone calls and call-backs to pharmacies. Physician offices receive over 150 million call-backs from pharmacies with questions, clarifications and refill requests. According to HIMSS article on e-prescribing under Topics and Tools at their website almost 30 percent of the 3 billion prescriptions written annually require a call backs. This equals 900 million prescription-related telephone calls annually1.
3. Eliminates faxes to pharmacies.
4. Streamlines the refill’s requests and authorization processes. Refill authorization from the pharmacy can be a completely automated process and refills can usually be generated in one click. The pharmacist generates a refill request/authorization that is delivered through the network to the provider’s system, the provider then reviews the request, approves or denies the refill and the pharmacy system is immediately updated.
5. Increases patient compliance. It is estimated that 20% of paper-based prescription orders go unfilled by the patient. E-prescribing systems expedite the filling of prescription at the pharmacy and drug literature can be printed for patients as well.
6. Improves Formulary adherence. By checking with healthcare formularies at point-of-care, generic substitutions and generic first-line therapy choices are encouraged thus reducing patient costs.
7. Increases patient convenience by reducing patient trips to the pharmacy and reducing wait times.
8. Offers true Provider Mobility Full mobility can be attained when using a wireless network to write or authorize prescriptions anytime from anywhere.
9. Improves reporting ability. Query reporting may be performed which would be impossible with a paper prescription system. Common examples of such reporting would be: finding all patients who have had a particular medication prescribed to them during a drug recall, the frequency of medication prescribed by certain providers etc..
Note: controlled substances are currently not permitted to be filled via electronic means. If a user attempts to send a controlled substance electronically – a system message informs the user that this medication can not be filled this way and offers options to print or fax.
What your practice needs to do to get started e-prescribing:
1. Decide whether you wish to choose a stand-alone e-prescription software or a full EMR system which includes e-prescribing functionality.
2. Choose an e-prescribing software vendor. The e-prescribing vendor will need to utilize a company which supplies the electronic prescribing network (hub or gateway for transmissions). There are a few different e-prescription networking companies. Among the industry leaders are SureScripts (http://surescripts.com/), RxHub (http://www.rxhub.net/index.html), and ProxyMed (http://www.proxymed.com/). It is unlikely that physicians would have any reason to have direct contact with the electronic networking vendor. SureScripts, the nation’s largest electronic prescribing network, provides a true, seamless electronic connection between physician offices and pharmacies. This network provides secure and reliable two-way transmissions between physicians and pharmacies. More than 85% of chain and independent pharmacies have tested and certified their systems to connect to the SureScript electronic prescribing network.
3. Install an internet connection; high speed is highly recommended.
4. Purchase hardware such as desktop PC’s, laptops, pocket PC’s, tablet PC’s , PDA’s utilizing a wired or wireless network.
Jan 7, 2010
Meaningful Use ? Interim Final Rule Published
The HITECH Stimulus Act is legislation designed to promote the adoption of Electronic Health Records (EHRs) among physicians. Passed near the beginning of 2009, the HITECH Act will reimburse qualified physicians who purchase and implement a certified EHR system. If a physician’s practice includes 30% Medicaid patients or more, they could qualify for up to $64,000. Medicare incentives could total up to $44,000, depending upon allowable charges.
“Meaningful Use” is a core concept of the HITECH Stimulus Act. Physicians must do more than simply seeing a certain amount of Medicaid or Medicare patients. “Meaningful Use” outlines a set of EHR features that physicians must use in their practice. On December 30th, 2009, The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) along with the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) published a final recommendation for the meaningful use definition.
Meaningful use is broken up into several stages. In Stage 1, physicians will have to use features like Computerized Physician Order Entry (CPOE), implement drug-to-drug, drug-to-allergy, and drug-to-forumlary checks, and maintain an updated problem list with ICD-9 or SNOMED, along with a whole host of other requirements. For the most part, the final recommendations look much the same as the initial recommendations from the ONC committee earlier in 2009. The final recommendations will take effect in approximately thirty days; the public is encouraged to comment for the next sixty days. CMS could decide to change the recommendations before final adoption, but most think any changes will be minor.
Deliberations over the meaningful use definitions created a great deal of uncertainty in the EHR market. Most physicians put their buying plans on hold, rather than taking the chance of purchasing an EHR that may not meet the requirements. While caution is understandable, physicians who wait too long may have trouble implementing an EHR in time to qualify for the 2011 reimbursements.
Purchasing an EHR is not like buying off-the-shelf software. With all the vendors, systems, and options, it normally takes several months to make a purchase decision. Once they sign papers, physicians may need to wait up to six months for installation to begin because of vendor backlogs. After installation, physicians and their staff still have to train, which can take weeks for more complicated systems.
Fortunately, the wait is over. CMS and ONC have published their final recommendations. EHR vendors are busy making sure their systems meet the meaningful use requirements. Likewise, physicians need to get busy with their EHR search. Physicians need to make a decision as soon as possible to qualify for 2011 and avoid increasing vendor backlogs. If you are interested in participating in the HITECH Stimulus, ask an EHR vendor to perform a needs analysis for your practice.
“Meaningful Use” is a core concept of the HITECH Stimulus Act. Physicians must do more than simply seeing a certain amount of Medicaid or Medicare patients. “Meaningful Use” outlines a set of EHR features that physicians must use in their practice. On December 30th, 2009, The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) along with the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) published a final recommendation for the meaningful use definition.
Meaningful use is broken up into several stages. In Stage 1, physicians will have to use features like Computerized Physician Order Entry (CPOE), implement drug-to-drug, drug-to-allergy, and drug-to-forumlary checks, and maintain an updated problem list with ICD-9 or SNOMED, along with a whole host of other requirements. For the most part, the final recommendations look much the same as the initial recommendations from the ONC committee earlier in 2009. The final recommendations will take effect in approximately thirty days; the public is encouraged to comment for the next sixty days. CMS could decide to change the recommendations before final adoption, but most think any changes will be minor.
Deliberations over the meaningful use definitions created a great deal of uncertainty in the EHR market. Most physicians put their buying plans on hold, rather than taking the chance of purchasing an EHR that may not meet the requirements. While caution is understandable, physicians who wait too long may have trouble implementing an EHR in time to qualify for the 2011 reimbursements.
Purchasing an EHR is not like buying off-the-shelf software. With all the vendors, systems, and options, it normally takes several months to make a purchase decision. Once they sign papers, physicians may need to wait up to six months for installation to begin because of vendor backlogs. After installation, physicians and their staff still have to train, which can take weeks for more complicated systems.
Fortunately, the wait is over. CMS and ONC have published their final recommendations. EHR vendors are busy making sure their systems meet the meaningful use requirements. Likewise, physicians need to get busy with their EHR search. Physicians need to make a decision as soon as possible to qualify for 2011 and avoid increasing vendor backlogs. If you are interested in participating in the HITECH Stimulus, ask an EHR vendor to perform a needs analysis for your practice.
Jan 6, 2010
An Efficient Medical Transcription Service Can Decrease Costs And Increase Margins
Want to organize physician’s handwritten notes and prescriptions into electronic documents without spending a fortune? A medical transcription service is the perfect solution for you.
All medical institutions require computerization of medical notes for clean and compact record-keeping, insurance claims processing, quick reference, conferencing and various other reasons. Hospitals and clinics have long been hiring full time transcriptionists to do the same. But this is an expensive option and not the ideal solution if you have varying volume of transcription needs. Alternatively, you can give transcription duties to other clerical staff or use voice recognition software. But these solutions can be quite inaccurate, putting the health of your patients at stake. Your clerical staff may not be well trained for medical transcription and accuracy of voice recognition usually is too low to be useful. A medical transcription service gives you the best combination of expense, quality and accuracy.
How does a medical tanscription service work?
* Physicians dictate their notes into a recording device, usually a toll-free phone line or handheld digital recorder. Most medical transcription services support both these methods. Some services also accept recorded cassettes. Mp3 is the preferred sound format when using digital recorders, though other formats can also be used.
* The recorded information is then sent to the medical transcription service provider. Information security during transfer is critical. Your patients’ personal information must not be leaked out at any cost. Digital recordings are submitted via the Internet. This can be done using a secure web site and file transfer protocol (FTP) using custom software from the provider, or even through encrypted email. In case of a toll-free line, the information is directly recorded on the provider’s servers.
* The recorded notes are then transcribed and returned to the hospital or clinic. Information is usually returned as word files, though other formats like pdf can also be specified. Delivery methods include secure web sites, FTP, custom software, encrypted email and in some cases fax.
More comprehensive medical transcription services are also available. They offer an online system that stores both the audio files and transcripts, organizes them by date, doctor, or patient, and keeps track of progress as they’re being transcribed. These services are more expensive but offer substantial management benefits.
Important Considerations
Accuracy: The returned work must have accuracy close to 100 per cent. Select a medical transcription service that employs experienced and skilled medical transcriptionists and quality assurance professionals who review the transcriptions before delivering them to you. Your doctors should review and evaluate each transcript on delivery to prevent any damage to your patients’ health and well-being.
Turnaround Time: It refers to the maximum time within which medical transcripts will be delivered to you after submitting the audio recordings. Most medical transcription services offer a turnaround time of 24 to 48 hours. Most also include a STAT service that allows you to specify a turnaround time of one-, two- or four-hours at an additional cost. Different types of notes can have different turnaround times.
Security: Medical transcription services are subject to HIPAA rules about patient confidentiality. The industry standard for internet security is 128-bit SSL security. Physical security at the provider location is also important. Careful employee screening and tracking is essential. Audit trails can assist in tracking employees. An audit trail keeps track of each individual who accesses a given set of notes and the modifications they make.
Sound Quality: Good quality of sound recording is essential for performance. Digital handheld recorders provide better sound, though they carry an additional hardware cost. Some medical transcription services charge lower prices if you provide them with better quality recordings.
Location of service: Many medical transcription services use both domestic and international transcriptionists. There is generally no difference in quality and accuracy between the domestic and outsourced services. Having transcription teams all around the world enables the service providers to meet deadlines. You will most like pay more for service if you insist on using medical transcriptionists located in a developed country like the US.
How much will you have to pay?
You are charged per line of text. The industry standard is 65 characters in a single line including spaces. Some service providers however, include lesser number of characters in a single line. Price usually ranges from $.05 to $.20 per line. Before you select a vendor, compare price quotes from multiple medical transcription companies.
Most medical transcription service providers offer free trial runs. Carefully assess the provider’s ability to meet deadlines, the accuracy of transcripts, and ease of interaction with their customer service representatives during the trial run. Many providers assign a dedicated team of transcriptionists for long term contracts and also offer lower prices. Carefully evaluate your requirements, the providers and the available services before making a decision.
Access realistic things to know about directory – make sure to study the site. The times have come when proper info is truly only one click of your mouse, use this possibility.
All medical institutions require computerization of medical notes for clean and compact record-keeping, insurance claims processing, quick reference, conferencing and various other reasons. Hospitals and clinics have long been hiring full time transcriptionists to do the same. But this is an expensive option and not the ideal solution if you have varying volume of transcription needs. Alternatively, you can give transcription duties to other clerical staff or use voice recognition software. But these solutions can be quite inaccurate, putting the health of your patients at stake. Your clerical staff may not be well trained for medical transcription and accuracy of voice recognition usually is too low to be useful. A medical transcription service gives you the best combination of expense, quality and accuracy.
How does a medical tanscription service work?
* Physicians dictate their notes into a recording device, usually a toll-free phone line or handheld digital recorder. Most medical transcription services support both these methods. Some services also accept recorded cassettes. Mp3 is the preferred sound format when using digital recorders, though other formats can also be used.
* The recorded information is then sent to the medical transcription service provider. Information security during transfer is critical. Your patients’ personal information must not be leaked out at any cost. Digital recordings are submitted via the Internet. This can be done using a secure web site and file transfer protocol (FTP) using custom software from the provider, or even through encrypted email. In case of a toll-free line, the information is directly recorded on the provider’s servers.
* The recorded notes are then transcribed and returned to the hospital or clinic. Information is usually returned as word files, though other formats like pdf can also be specified. Delivery methods include secure web sites, FTP, custom software, encrypted email and in some cases fax.
More comprehensive medical transcription services are also available. They offer an online system that stores both the audio files and transcripts, organizes them by date, doctor, or patient, and keeps track of progress as they’re being transcribed. These services are more expensive but offer substantial management benefits.
Important Considerations
Accuracy: The returned work must have accuracy close to 100 per cent. Select a medical transcription service that employs experienced and skilled medical transcriptionists and quality assurance professionals who review the transcriptions before delivering them to you. Your doctors should review and evaluate each transcript on delivery to prevent any damage to your patients’ health and well-being.
Turnaround Time: It refers to the maximum time within which medical transcripts will be delivered to you after submitting the audio recordings. Most medical transcription services offer a turnaround time of 24 to 48 hours. Most also include a STAT service that allows you to specify a turnaround time of one-, two- or four-hours at an additional cost. Different types of notes can have different turnaround times.
Security: Medical transcription services are subject to HIPAA rules about patient confidentiality. The industry standard for internet security is 128-bit SSL security. Physical security at the provider location is also important. Careful employee screening and tracking is essential. Audit trails can assist in tracking employees. An audit trail keeps track of each individual who accesses a given set of notes and the modifications they make.
Sound Quality: Good quality of sound recording is essential for performance. Digital handheld recorders provide better sound, though they carry an additional hardware cost. Some medical transcription services charge lower prices if you provide them with better quality recordings.
Location of service: Many medical transcription services use both domestic and international transcriptionists. There is generally no difference in quality and accuracy between the domestic and outsourced services. Having transcription teams all around the world enables the service providers to meet deadlines. You will most like pay more for service if you insist on using medical transcriptionists located in a developed country like the US.
How much will you have to pay?
You are charged per line of text. The industry standard is 65 characters in a single line including spaces. Some service providers however, include lesser number of characters in a single line. Price usually ranges from $.05 to $.20 per line. Before you select a vendor, compare price quotes from multiple medical transcription companies.
Most medical transcription service providers offer free trial runs. Carefully assess the provider’s ability to meet deadlines, the accuracy of transcripts, and ease of interaction with their customer service representatives during the trial run. Many providers assign a dedicated team of transcriptionists for long term contracts and also offer lower prices. Carefully evaluate your requirements, the providers and the available services before making a decision.
Access realistic things to know about directory – make sure to study the site. The times have come when proper info is truly only one click of your mouse, use this possibility.
Sep 9, 2009
Walker Family Medicine adopts OmniMD EMR/ PMS solution
Tarrytown, NY- OmniMD, one of the leading healthcare information technology companies, which provides Electronic Medical Records (EMR), Practice Management (PMS) and other Healthcare IT products and services to the providers and clinics across the nation, has announced today that Walker Family Medicine (WFM) located in Willcox, Arizona has adopted the companys EMR and PMS solution in order to improve the quality at point of care.
WFM decided to implement an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system from day one to access patient medical records, to improve the quality at point of care, to increase productivity and reduce medical errors. Besides the financial benefits, the major objective was to enhance the quality of care as well as the satisfaction of its patients.
"After comparing many EMRs, I determined that OmniMD was the best software for my new clinic. I run a high volume family practice clinic with two mid-level providers. OmniMD is used for scheduling, reminder calls, medical records, insurance and patient billing. OmniMD is a critical tool for my practice. It is a very good software, but I am also very pleased with the level of service OmniMD provides with their technical support team, Dr. Walker (Board Certified in Family Practice) says.
Dr. Walker is pleased with the performance of the OmniMD solution, which allows her to access and maintain entire patient medical records promptly. The system allows the clinic to customize templates as per their specialty, at the same time multiple providers can access a single chart at once. In case of a Specialty Provider, the system allows the sharing of charts among providers and staff across multiple locations. OmniMD Medical Billing System can electronically track claim status, payments and work flow of the billing team. OmniMD Patient Portal allows patients to register on-line, update and view their information, request an appointment, order an Rx refill and view lab reports.
About Walker Family Medicine
The Walker Family Medicine (WFM) team has worked together for over five years while serving the Willcox community. They are committed to providing patient-centered care in order to maintain their community's health. WFM provides routine healthcare for children, including immunizations. WFM also has associations with pediatric specialists. WFM provides routine women's healthcare. This care includes annual gynecological exams, family planning, pre -and post- menopausal counseling and treatment.
WFM has Urgent Care services. The clinic is available to care for patients basic urgent healthcare needs, such as simple lacerations, sprains, fracture diagnosis and care. They are associated with Charles Leighton Hospice and they provide referrals when appropriate. For more information, please visit www.walkerfamilymedicine.com
About OmniMD
OmniMD is a division of Integrated Systems Management, Inc. (ISM), a leader in software development, system integration, business and technology consulting for fortune 500 companies since 1989.
OmniMD integrated Electronic Health Records (EHR) and Practice Management (PMS) product and services, offers unparalleled reliability, ease-of-use, efficiency, and customizability. The solution is a HIPPA compliant, web-enabled and support device, which can range from tablet PCs, handhelds to desktop computers. The solution is SureScripts Certified, which also provides real-time alerts for drug-drug, drug allergy and other interactions based on a patients EMR. The solution captures complete documentation such as HPI, ROS and Physical Exams, Assessment & Plan to complete patient visits. The system follows HL7 standards for information sharing and integration across practices and hospitals. The solution is secured by Thawte, which uses 128bit encryption and digital certificates to ensure complete data security. OmniMD received a 5-star rating in the AC Group survey in 2006. For more information, please visit Medical Billing Services.
Aug 21, 2009
Interoperable Electronic Prescribing In The United States: A Progress Report
Although the vast majority of U.S. physicians still handwrite prescriptions, adoption of electronic prescribing is slowly growing. Major barriers to adoption remain, including the inability to electronically submit prescriptions for controlled substances and confusion about standards for data exchange. Federal and state governments and private insurers are using payment and policy incentives to boost e-prescribing because they still believe in its promise for improving the quality and efficiency of health care. However, additional efforts and further investments are needed to reap the benefits of e-prescribing on a national scale.
ELECTRONIC PRESCRIBING BURST ONTO THE health policy scene in 2003 with passage of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act (MMA). MMA created a prescription drug benefit for Medicare beneficiaries (Part D) and required that Part D plans support an “electronic prescription program,” should any of their providers and pharmacies voluntarily choose to prescribe using computer systems. MMA also called for the adoption and testing of specific technical standards for the data exchange transactions that Part D plans would use.
Medicare and other payers are particularly interested in fostering the use of e-prescribing because it could provide information at the point of care to improve the quality and safety of medication use while lowering medication costs.2 Health plans that have sponsored e-prescribing programs expect an initial return on investment (ROI) simply through increased generic drug use and formulary compliance. For example, the Health Alliance Plan of Michigan estimated a five-year ROI of more than $14 million, based on the 2005 and 2006 improvement in its generic use rate. A new study based on e-prescribing in Massachusetts found that physicians who adopted e-prescribing systems with the ability to check formulary status increased their prescribing of generics and other lower-cost options, resulting in a conservative estimate of savings for consumers and insurers of $845,000 per 100,000 patients per year. Such savings could be particularly important for Medicare, which spent $42.2 billion in 2007 for beneficiaries’ prescription drugs. Such savings also could become increasingly important for private insurers that are facing decreasing investment earnings and enrollment because of the recent economic crisis.
With the impetus from Medicare, e-prescribing has gained momentum. In many areas of the United States, payers, employers, pharmacies, technology partners, professional associations, state governments, legislators, and other stakeholders are working to spur its adoption through incentive payments; legislation; and funding for software, hardware, and connectivity fees.
Since 2006 we have seen a dramatic rise in volume for key transactions: prescription transmissions, eligibility checks, formulary and benefit information, medication history requests in ambulatory settings, and medication requests for patients in acute care settings (Exhibit 1). The numbers reflect both maturing of the market as well as expanding use by prescribers, which is still primarily occurring among early adopters. Read MOre Electronic Prescription
ELECTRONIC PRESCRIBING BURST ONTO THE health policy scene in 2003 with passage of the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act (MMA). MMA created a prescription drug benefit for Medicare beneficiaries (Part D) and required that Part D plans support an “electronic prescription program,” should any of their providers and pharmacies voluntarily choose to prescribe using computer systems. MMA also called for the adoption and testing of specific technical standards for the data exchange transactions that Part D plans would use.
Medicare and other payers are particularly interested in fostering the use of e-prescribing because it could provide information at the point of care to improve the quality and safety of medication use while lowering medication costs.2 Health plans that have sponsored e-prescribing programs expect an initial return on investment (ROI) simply through increased generic drug use and formulary compliance. For example, the Health Alliance Plan of Michigan estimated a five-year ROI of more than $14 million, based on the 2005 and 2006 improvement in its generic use rate. A new study based on e-prescribing in Massachusetts found that physicians who adopted e-prescribing systems with the ability to check formulary status increased their prescribing of generics and other lower-cost options, resulting in a conservative estimate of savings for consumers and insurers of $845,000 per 100,000 patients per year. Such savings could be particularly important for Medicare, which spent $42.2 billion in 2007 for beneficiaries’ prescription drugs. Such savings also could become increasingly important for private insurers that are facing decreasing investment earnings and enrollment because of the recent economic crisis.
With the impetus from Medicare, e-prescribing has gained momentum. In many areas of the United States, payers, employers, pharmacies, technology partners, professional associations, state governments, legislators, and other stakeholders are working to spur its adoption through incentive payments; legislation; and funding for software, hardware, and connectivity fees.
Since 2006 we have seen a dramatic rise in volume for key transactions: prescription transmissions, eligibility checks, formulary and benefit information, medication history requests in ambulatory settings, and medication requests for patients in acute care settings (Exhibit 1). The numbers reflect both maturing of the market as well as expanding use by prescribers, which is still primarily occurring among early adopters. Read MOre Electronic Prescription
Government Provides Incentives to Encourage E-Prescriptions
Under the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA) providers who implement e-prescription programs are eligible for incentives. Offices are looking for medical software to help them implement this program and reap the rewards.
The E-Prescription Incentive Program
In 2003 the Medicare Modernization Act (MMA) included provisions for electronic prescriptions. Growing evidence that e-prescriptions reduce medication errors and protect patient safety, as well as physician liability, has motivated many medical offices to convert over but many doctors still depend on paper prescriptions.
This in part led to the creation of the 2009 Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program that rewards providers who use e-prescriptions for their Medicare Part B claims. In 2009 a qualified e-prescriber will be eligible for a 2% incentive payment. The hope is that most or even all providers will seek out medical software that supports e-prescription and adopt that system for growing numbers of patients. The goal is not only to improve public safety but to make Medicare filing more cost effective and save money.
Qualification for the Program
The requirements for participation in the program are quite simple. The medical software used must be able to do the following, quoted directly from the measure specifications:
- Generate a complete active medication list incorporating electronic data received from applicable pharmacies and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) if available
- Select medications, print prescriptions, electronically transmit prescriptions, and conduct all alerts
- Provide information related to lower cost, therapeutically appropriate alternatives (if any). (The availability of an e-prescribing system to receive tiered formulary information, if available, would meet this requirement for 2009)
- Provide information on formulary or tiered formulary medications, patient eligibility, and authorization requirements received electronically from the patient’s drug plan (if available) More Read Electronic Prescription
The E-Prescription Incentive Program
In 2003 the Medicare Modernization Act (MMA) included provisions for electronic prescriptions. Growing evidence that e-prescriptions reduce medication errors and protect patient safety, as well as physician liability, has motivated many medical offices to convert over but many doctors still depend on paper prescriptions.
This in part led to the creation of the 2009 Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program that rewards providers who use e-prescriptions for their Medicare Part B claims. In 2009 a qualified e-prescriber will be eligible for a 2% incentive payment. The hope is that most or even all providers will seek out medical software that supports e-prescription and adopt that system for growing numbers of patients. The goal is not only to improve public safety but to make Medicare filing more cost effective and save money.
Qualification for the Program
The requirements for participation in the program are quite simple. The medical software used must be able to do the following, quoted directly from the measure specifications:
- Generate a complete active medication list incorporating electronic data received from applicable pharmacies and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) if available
- Select medications, print prescriptions, electronically transmit prescriptions, and conduct all alerts
- Provide information related to lower cost, therapeutically appropriate alternatives (if any). (The availability of an e-prescribing system to receive tiered formulary information, if available, would meet this requirement for 2009)
- Provide information on formulary or tiered formulary medications, patient eligibility, and authorization requirements received electronically from the patient’s drug plan (if available) More Read Electronic Prescription
Aug 13, 2009
Healthcare Update: Obama Holds Town Hall Meeting In New Hampshire
President Obama held a town hall meeting in New Hampshire today, Tuesday, August 11, in an effort to calm fears over the Democrats’ legislative initiatives to reform healthcare in this country. The meeting was structured, and no visible emotional outbursts were seen as in other meetings with lawmakers across the country.
Obama answered questions posed by attendees, emphatically telling the audience that the current healthcare system solely benefits the insurance industry. With 46 million in the country without health insurance, he tried to reassure his audience that they would be able to keep their current coverage and doctor and that the government would not be “in charge”. Obama hammered on the fact that the government and insurance bureaucrats should not be meddling, that pre-existing conditions will be covered and that insurance companies would not be able to drop or deny coverage or water down coverage. Many of the questions on voter’s minds that were expected to be answered, especially with respect to employers and small businesses, were not addressed.
Numerous recent polls show support for healthcare reform is eroding, and the President’s numbers are dropping as well over fears that a government takeover of our healthcare system in the U.S. will lead to a Canadian style system with long waits for treatments and referrals.
The President’s message today was supposed to address people who already have insurance through their employers and highlight how his proposals would affect them. HAI monitored the town hall meeting and didn’t find the retool of the White House message to have answered those questions. Another town hall meeting with Obama is scheduled for Bozeman, Montana on Friday, and on Saturday, Obama will be in Grand Junction, Colorado.
Meanwhile, the White House has opened a Reality Check website with a viral tool aimed at online healthcare combat on everything from rationing to euthanasia. The website incorporates lessons learned from the Obama presidential campaign, and shows the White House is becoming more aggressive in dispelling what they call misinformation in the healthcare debates.
The August Congressional Recess is not even half over, and Democratic lawmakers are very much at risk of losing control of the public debate over healthcare reform, facing wary constituents and facing a barrage of accusations and criticism over their writing of the legislation prior to leaving Washington. Powerful groups on both sides of the debate are using the August recess to hammer home to lawmakers that there are very serious political consequences to the healthcare issue. Read More EMR Stimulus Package
Obama answered questions posed by attendees, emphatically telling the audience that the current healthcare system solely benefits the insurance industry. With 46 million in the country without health insurance, he tried to reassure his audience that they would be able to keep their current coverage and doctor and that the government would not be “in charge”. Obama hammered on the fact that the government and insurance bureaucrats should not be meddling, that pre-existing conditions will be covered and that insurance companies would not be able to drop or deny coverage or water down coverage. Many of the questions on voter’s minds that were expected to be answered, especially with respect to employers and small businesses, were not addressed.
Numerous recent polls show support for healthcare reform is eroding, and the President’s numbers are dropping as well over fears that a government takeover of our healthcare system in the U.S. will lead to a Canadian style system with long waits for treatments and referrals.
The President’s message today was supposed to address people who already have insurance through their employers and highlight how his proposals would affect them. HAI monitored the town hall meeting and didn’t find the retool of the White House message to have answered those questions. Another town hall meeting with Obama is scheduled for Bozeman, Montana on Friday, and on Saturday, Obama will be in Grand Junction, Colorado.
Meanwhile, the White House has opened a Reality Check website with a viral tool aimed at online healthcare combat on everything from rationing to euthanasia. The website incorporates lessons learned from the Obama presidential campaign, and shows the White House is becoming more aggressive in dispelling what they call misinformation in the healthcare debates.
The August Congressional Recess is not even half over, and Democratic lawmakers are very much at risk of losing control of the public debate over healthcare reform, facing wary constituents and facing a barrage of accusations and criticism over their writing of the legislation prior to leaving Washington. Powerful groups on both sides of the debate are using the August recess to hammer home to lawmakers that there are very serious political consequences to the healthcare issue. Read More EMR Stimulus Package
Government Provides Incentives to Encourage E-Prescriptions
Under the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA) providers who implement e-prescription programs are eligible for incentives. Offices are looking for medical software to help them implement this program and reap the rewards.
The E-Prescription Incentive Program
In 2003 the Medicare Modernization Act (MMA) included provisions for electronic prescriptions. Growing evidence that e-prescriptions reduce medication errors and protect patient safety, as well as physician liability, has motivated many medical offices to convert over but many doctors still depend on paper prescriptions.
This in part led to the creation of the 2009 Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program that rewards providers who use e-prescriptions for their Medicare Part B claims. In 2009 a qualified e-prescriber will be eligible for a 2% incentive payment. The hope is that most or even all providers will seek out medical software that supports e-prescription and adopt that system for growing numbers of patients. The goal is not only to improve public safety but to make Medicare filing more cost effective and save money.
Qualification for the Program
The requirements for participation in the program are quite simple. The medical software used must be able to do the following, quoted directly from the measure specifications:
- Generate a complete active medication list incorporating electronic data received from applicable pharmacies and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) if available
- Select medications, print prescriptions, electronically transmit prescriptions, and conduct all alerts
- Provide information related to lower cost, therapeutically appropriate alternatives (if any). (The availability of an e-prescribing system to receive tiered formulary information, if available, would meet this requirement for 2009)
- Provide information on formulary or tiered formulary medications, patient eligibility, and authorization requirements received electronically from the patient’s drug plan (if available)
In addition, at least 10% of a participating provider’s Medicare Part B services must be made up of specific procedure codes detailed in the measure. More information can be found at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ERxIncentive/06_E-Prescribing_Measure.asp
What Software Is Required?
There are a number of medical software options available to providers. Many EMR systems include an option for e-prescriptions. The software used doesn’t have to be CCHIT certified which allows a number of inexpensive and free EMR systems to be considered. Read More Electronic Prescription
The E-Prescription Incentive Program
In 2003 the Medicare Modernization Act (MMA) included provisions for electronic prescriptions. Growing evidence that e-prescriptions reduce medication errors and protect patient safety, as well as physician liability, has motivated many medical offices to convert over but many doctors still depend on paper prescriptions.
This in part led to the creation of the 2009 Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program that rewards providers who use e-prescriptions for their Medicare Part B claims. In 2009 a qualified e-prescriber will be eligible for a 2% incentive payment. The hope is that most or even all providers will seek out medical software that supports e-prescription and adopt that system for growing numbers of patients. The goal is not only to improve public safety but to make Medicare filing more cost effective and save money.
Qualification for the Program
The requirements for participation in the program are quite simple. The medical software used must be able to do the following, quoted directly from the measure specifications:
- Generate a complete active medication list incorporating electronic data received from applicable pharmacies and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) if available
- Select medications, print prescriptions, electronically transmit prescriptions, and conduct all alerts
- Provide information related to lower cost, therapeutically appropriate alternatives (if any). (The availability of an e-prescribing system to receive tiered formulary information, if available, would meet this requirement for 2009)
- Provide information on formulary or tiered formulary medications, patient eligibility, and authorization requirements received electronically from the patient’s drug plan (if available)
In addition, at least 10% of a participating provider’s Medicare Part B services must be made up of specific procedure codes detailed in the measure. More information can be found at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ERxIncentive/06_E-Prescribing_Measure.asp
What Software Is Required?
There are a number of medical software options available to providers. Many EMR systems include an option for e-prescriptions. The software used doesn’t have to be CCHIT certified which allows a number of inexpensive and free EMR systems to be considered. Read More Electronic Prescription
Healthcare providers see certainty on meaningful use
The requirements for what health IT users need to do to meet the meaningful use dictates of the stimulus law are now clearer, with the focus apparently swinging to how the IT certification process will handle them.
Healthcare providers finally have some certainty about what they need to do to be meaningful users of health IT, said Dr. Bruce Taffel, chief medical officer of SharedHealth, an healthcare information exchange and application provider.
Dr. David Blumenthal, the national health IT coordinator, and the HIT Policy Committee, a public/private organization, approved July 16 a list of 28 health IT functions and corresponding quality and efficiency improvement measures for 2011 that become progressively more rigorous in 2013 and 2015.
The schedule is aggressive and the criteria will be difficult for some to achieve.
“The recommendations provide more clarity at this stage, although there’s still a lot more work to be done,” Taffel said today.
The goals for meaningful use are for providers to electronically capture data, report quality measures and use the data to track patients’ medical conditions. Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, providers will be eligible for increased Medicare and Medicaid payments beginning in 2011 if they demonstrate meaningful use of their certified health IT. The payments end after 2015 when health IT should be broadly adopted.
“The committee shaped their recommendations on meaningful use and the progression to achieve that on the basis of what we can do today, what the current condition is and with a fairly reasonable explanation of how you begin phasing in much of this,” Taffel said.
The policy committee also made its first recommendations on the certification process of electronic health records. Currently, the Certification Commission for Health IT (CCHIT) is the sole certifying and testing organization. The HIT Policy Committee wants more competition.
Multiple groups will be needed to perform certifications because so many more providers will seek to have the service conform to the stimulus, said Paul Egerman, retired businessman and chair of the committee’s certification and adoption work group. Read More EMR
Healthcare providers finally have some certainty about what they need to do to be meaningful users of health IT, said Dr. Bruce Taffel, chief medical officer of SharedHealth, an healthcare information exchange and application provider.
Dr. David Blumenthal, the national health IT coordinator, and the HIT Policy Committee, a public/private organization, approved July 16 a list of 28 health IT functions and corresponding quality and efficiency improvement measures for 2011 that become progressively more rigorous in 2013 and 2015.
The schedule is aggressive and the criteria will be difficult for some to achieve.
“The recommendations provide more clarity at this stage, although there’s still a lot more work to be done,” Taffel said today.
The goals for meaningful use are for providers to electronically capture data, report quality measures and use the data to track patients’ medical conditions. Under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, providers will be eligible for increased Medicare and Medicaid payments beginning in 2011 if they demonstrate meaningful use of their certified health IT. The payments end after 2015 when health IT should be broadly adopted.
“The committee shaped their recommendations on meaningful use and the progression to achieve that on the basis of what we can do today, what the current condition is and with a fairly reasonable explanation of how you begin phasing in much of this,” Taffel said.
The policy committee also made its first recommendations on the certification process of electronic health records. Currently, the Certification Commission for Health IT (CCHIT) is the sole certifying and testing organization. The HIT Policy Committee wants more competition.
Multiple groups will be needed to perform certifications because so many more providers will seek to have the service conform to the stimulus, said Paul Egerman, retired businessman and chair of the committee’s certification and adoption work group. Read More EMR
Aug 12, 2009
Study places EHRs at core of saving cardiac patients? lives
An EHR program that cut cardiac deaths by 73 percent has also kept patients healthy two years later, according to a new study.
The Kaiser Permanente program in Denver linked coronary artery disease patients and teams of pharmacists, nurses, primary care doctors and cardiologists with an electronic health record to help keep the patients healthy two years after they left the program by keeping them in touch with their caregivers electronically, according to a randomized study.
The study, which was funded by the American College of Clinical Pharmacy, is published in The American Journal of Managed Care this month. It is the first randomized study to evaluate a follow-up system for patients discharged from a cardiovascular risk reduction service, researchers said.
The Clinical Pharmacy Cardiac Risk Service at Kaiser Permanente Colorado combines Kaiser Permanente’s HealthConnect EHR with patient outreach, education, lifestyle adjustments and medication management.
The two-year randomized trial of 421 patients found that patients discharged from the program kept their lipid and blood pressure levels at controlled, healthy levels by receiving electronic reminders.
“Because lack of adherence to medications and failure to maintain treatment goals are so high among heart disease patients, we wanted to find out what would happen to the patients after they were discharged from the program but remained in contact with the healthcare system through our electronic health record,” said the study’s lead author, Kari L. Olson, a clinical pharmacy specialist with Kaiser Permanente Colorado’s Cardiac Risk Reduction program. “The takeaway message here is that we can help support patients in maintaining treatment goals and medication adherence, which is often a challenge with most chronic conditions. Using technology and integrated systems already in place, we can help keep patients healthy for longer and deliver continuity of care in a cost-efficient manner.” Read More EMR
The Kaiser Permanente program in Denver linked coronary artery disease patients and teams of pharmacists, nurses, primary care doctors and cardiologists with an electronic health record to help keep the patients healthy two years after they left the program by keeping them in touch with their caregivers electronically, according to a randomized study.
The study, which was funded by the American College of Clinical Pharmacy, is published in The American Journal of Managed Care this month. It is the first randomized study to evaluate a follow-up system for patients discharged from a cardiovascular risk reduction service, researchers said.
The Clinical Pharmacy Cardiac Risk Service at Kaiser Permanente Colorado combines Kaiser Permanente’s HealthConnect EHR with patient outreach, education, lifestyle adjustments and medication management.
The two-year randomized trial of 421 patients found that patients discharged from the program kept their lipid and blood pressure levels at controlled, healthy levels by receiving electronic reminders.
“Because lack of adherence to medications and failure to maintain treatment goals are so high among heart disease patients, we wanted to find out what would happen to the patients after they were discharged from the program but remained in contact with the healthcare system through our electronic health record,” said the study’s lead author, Kari L. Olson, a clinical pharmacy specialist with Kaiser Permanente Colorado’s Cardiac Risk Reduction program. “The takeaway message here is that we can help support patients in maintaining treatment goals and medication adherence, which is often a challenge with most chronic conditions. Using technology and integrated systems already in place, we can help keep patients healthy for longer and deliver continuity of care in a cost-efficient manner.” Read More EMR
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