AS I SEE IT
erences, number of ASCs using the system); and
■
customer service and support (e.g., responsiveness to questions; under- standing of ASC issues; positive in- teraction with representatives; system improvements and upgrades to ad- dress new requirements).
Learn About Your Options With the list of EMRs you are consider- ing and the checklist in hand, it is time to start performing an in-depth analysis of the systems and their vendors. Here are a few effective ways to perform this analysis and properly vet your options: Gather background information— Conduct research into the different EMRs on your list by obtaining information from the vendors’ web sites and contacting vendors directly to request EMR speci- fications. There are a number of impor-
It is important to note that for ASCs to get the
maximum benefits, they need to switch to an EMR specifically designed for an ASC.”
— Anne Dean, RN The ADA Group
tant pieces of information you will want to learn when conducting this research. These include: 1) Does the EMR support your specific specialty area(s)? Every specialty has its own set of workflow and documentation needs. A system that does not specifically address them will require more modifications and workarounds; 2) Is the vendor focused on the ASC indus- try? ASCs have their own set of specific (and ever-changing) needs compared to
other providers, and an ASC EMR vendor should be focused on updating its system to meet new requirements and expecta- tions; and 3) Does the vendor provide ex- ceptional client service support? An EMR vendor should have a reputation for deliv- ering prompt responses to questions and fixes to any issues that may arise. ASCs pride themselves on running efficiently; vendors need to have effective processes that do not hinder this effort.
12 ASC FOCUS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013
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