Rosemarie Nelson

Q: I'm interested in using speech recognition software to dictate my notes, but I'm worried that my old desktop computer won't have the capacity to handle it. Does using a speech recognition system typically require much in the way of new hardware? 

 To run these programs effectively, you'll want a powerful computer that has a significant amount of memory. Check the voice recognition software system's specification requirements as well as the recommendations-often two very different sets of specifications. It's quite possible that your older desktop computer will be able to run the software, but there's a good chance it will process the information so slowly that you'll become frustrated and give up using the technology. 

Nelson is with MGMA Healthcare Consulting Group, Jamestown, New York, and a

Articles

Thinking about using speech recognition software in your practice? Discover why you might want to upgrade your hardware at the same time.

Speech recognition software requires up-to-date hardware

Q: My practice has been approached by two hospitals about joining accountable care organizations (ACOs). One of the hospitals uses the same electronic health record (EHR) system as we do. Would that make integrating with that hospital substantially easier, and should it be a consideration in choosing between the hospitals? 

 ACOs involve a signifcant cultural shift, with technology used as a tool to support the change. A key consideration is referral patterns, because the goal of an ACO is to optimize care. How entrenched is your EHR system? Is it effectively supporting your physician-nurse teams to the point that doctors would leave the practice rather than switch EHRs?  

If the answer is yes, then making a determination based on the EHR probably is appropriate. If not, however, you may not want the EHR to be the main factor as you consider all the changes an ACO is likely to bring to your practice.

Many factors determine which ACO your practice may join. See how EHR compatibility fits in.

EHR compatibility can be factor in ACO decision

Q:  I've read a little about open- source electronic health record (EHR) systems, and the idea seems intriguing due to the possibility of substantial cost savings. In general, how many other physicians are using these types of EHR systems, and are they worth investigating? 

 Open-source systems have a certain appeal because of the perception that they are low-cost or no-cost. Remember, however, the wisdom in the old saying that you get what you pay for. Implementation and training services frequently are minimal or non-existent  with open-source systems, and those are critical elements for successfully adopting an EHR.  

Not many physicians use open- source system solutions, so if you decide to include one in your search for an EHR, perform your due diligence and visit a practice reference site.  

Are you thinking of using an open-source electronic health record system? Learn why it might not be the best solution.

Cost savings of open-source EHR systems worth it?

 I continue to see practices' billing offices performing manual processes that clearinghouses can perform far more effectively. I recommend investigating your clearinghouse's services to streamline insurance eligibility verification and claim-scrubbing. In addition, process all claims and patient statements through your clearinghouse. Using technology for these services is key to optimizing your revenue cycle management. 

You, too, can use software to reduce staffing costs

Author | Rosemarie Nelson

Articles

Speech recognition software requires up-to-date hardware

EHR compatibility can be factor in ACO decision

Cost savings of open-source EHR systems worth it?

Clearinghouses optimize revenue