When selecting an Electronic medical record (EMR) software system for an oncology practice, it is typically advisable to settle on a system that has been created specifically to meet the unique needs of an oncology facility and its patients. It is also imperative to work with an experienced, highly reputable software vendor who is able to help the facility with the entire selection process. Knowledgeable vendors should also be comfortable with the critical task of assisting a practice with defining its most important objectives. This can help to create an EMR software system that helps both physicians and other medical staff members to improve current procedures and streamline existing workflows. In turn, this can also help the practice save time and money by reducing the possibility for error and working to eliminate unnecessary expenditures.
Most high quality EMR software systems that are designed specifically for an oncology practice will include a variety of built-in features that are already being used by other oncologists. These can include document management, PDR-based prescription writing, electronic lab requests and results, E-prescribing, and specialty-specific E&M coding assistance, along with a variety of others. In addition, make sure that the new EMR software system is designed to automatically recognize and utilize the unique terminology and language that is commonly used in an oncology specialty practice. For a complete list of available features, and to receive help in deciding which ones are best suited for your practice, talk to your software vendor.
Most reputable vendors have also designed a variety of highly customizable EMR software templates that are available for use in oncology practices. These templates help doctors and other medical staff members complete the important tasks of collecting, evaluating and storing important patient medical information, including a current list of all past and present medications, each patient’s complete medical history, and all potential treatments. Commonly used templates for oncologists include specialty-specific SOAP note templates, procedure templates, referral letter templates and patient education templates, but a variety of others may also be available, so be sure to ask your software vendor for a complete list. Interestingly, many practices have discovered that using oncology-specific scheduling and billing templates can even help to improve employee performance, as well as the overall patient experience.
Oncology specialty practices should always make it a priority to research a variety of EMR software systems and vendors before making a final decision. This will allow for a deeper understanding of the entire process, and it can also improve the oncology facility’s overall level of satisfaction with the implementation process and the software system in the long term.