Article
Physicians and their practice managers are starting to see that complying with recent laws and mandates will require a greater use of information technology (IT) and are exploring the pros and cons of using a single vendor versus multiple vendors for their IT needs.
New federal laws and regulations in recent years-ranging from penalties for not using electronic health records to new requirements for safeguarding patient information under updates to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act-have many medical practices are taking a closer look at their technology requirements. Physicians and their practice managers are starting to see that complying with these laws and mandates will require a greater use of information technology (IT) and are exploring the pros and cons of using a single vendor versus multiple vendors for their IT needs.
PROS
What are the benefits of using a single, core vendor?
CONS
What are the cons?
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Base your decision on a provider on three factors:
Hiring a single IT vendor to address your hardware, software, and networking needs can seem expensive, but doing so may be more economical for your practice in the long run. Having one number to call to solve a technology problem can get you back in action quicker because you can avoid vendor squabbles. Look for a vendor that can meet your needs, matches your service philosophy, and wants to support your business so that you can spend more time caring for your patients.
The author is IT manager for SS&G Healthcare Services in Akron, Ohio.
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