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Both Microsoft and Google have, on occasions, promised users the moon; according to September’s issue of Fast Company, both companies have finally delivered it. Microsoft’s WorldWide Telescope and Google Sky are both free virtual telescopes, but while Microsoft’s version requires users to download and install it to their desktop, Google’s version is available anywhere there is Internet access, and even works on mobile phones.

 These differing models are also represented in the galaxy of practice management software. NueMD, like Google Sky, is accessible from anywhere, offering rich functionality that makes lesser applications look clunky. On the other hand, many of its competitors are like Microsoft’s WorldWide Telescope – possessing good features if you don’t mind being tethered to the office, but isolated and incapable of fully interacting with the rest of the health care universe.
 
Just like Google, NueMD has a business model for the 21st century. Medical practice management software may not have the same cache as a virtual telescope, but when it comes to the future of technology, NueMD is reaching for the stars too.

It looks as though all those jokes (and lawsuits) that have centered around doctors’ terrible handwriting may soon be a thing of the past. Medicare’s recently passed law HR 6331, which gives providers financial incentives to e-Prescribe, has strengthened the growing trend of medical practices moving toward a paperless office.

It’s not just the prescription pad that is falling by the wayside. An increasing number of practices and payers alike are recognizing that documenting and charging for a patient visit electronically through a practice management software system is the most efficient method of operation. The benefits for providers are numerous – electronic medical billing can dramatically reduce rejected claims and shorten the reimbursement cycle, and electronic medical records keeps organized (and legible) patient information at a care provider’s fingertips. But there are advantages for payers too. They might not benefit from fewer rejected claims or having to reimburse providers more quickly, but they do benefit from a streamlined claims process that requires less administrative support. In a system where the take-up rate of innovations depends greatly on payers’ acceptance, completely paperless medical offices might be commonplace within a decade.   

In today’s economy, providers face a tough challenge in balancing appropriate reimbursement for their health care services while maximizing their one-on-one time with their patients. Streamlining patients’ visits and enabling them to have the most time with their provider (rather than waiting around, filling in paperwork or lining up to settle their co-pay) solves one of those challenges. This can be facilitated by using the reporting tools available within your practice management software system, and tracking patient flow to eliminate bottlenecks, as we’ve mentioned before in this blog. The reporting and analysis function within a PM system can also help with the other side of the conundrum – declining reimbursements. Rather than accepting lower reimbursements for your most common procedures, a recent article in Medical Economics suggests being a little more assertive with insurance carriers and presenting them with a report comparing dollar amounts offered by each payer for a procedure to start the renegotiating process. Harnessing the power of reporting to assess your operational and financial challenges makes good business sense any time, but with a shaky economy, it may be even more vital for your practice.