Electronic medical record (EMR) software systems that have been specifically designed for an orthopedic facility and its patients are typically the best choice. In addition, working with an experienced, reputable vendor can help a facility choose the best software system for its unique needs. Skilled vendors can also assist a practice with identifying its most important objectives, thereby creating a high-quality EMR software system that can help both physicians and other medical staff members to streamline current procedures and improve existing workflows. In turn, this can also help the clinic to 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 orthopedic facility will come with a number of built-in features that are already used by other orthopedic specialists. These often include document and image management, an online patient portal, decision support, E&M coding assistance for orthopedic facilities, lab interface and PDR-based prescription writing, in addition to many others. It is also imperative that the new EMR software system is set up to understand and implement the specific terminology and vocabulary that is commonly used in an orthopedic specialty facility. 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.

Also of note, most reputable vendors have designed a number of customizable EMR software templates that are available for use in orthopedic practices. These templates assist physicians and other medical staff members with the critical tasks of gathering, processing and cataloging important patient medical information, including a current list of all past and present medications, each patient’s complete medical history, and all potential treatments. Popular templates for the orthopedic specialty include imaging interfaces, growth charts, arthroscopy integration, EMG integration, progress charts and computerized muscle testing, but a number of others also exist, so be sure to discuss it with your software vendor. Interestingly, many facilities have found that implementing orthopedic-specific billing and scheduling templates can even work to improve employee performance, as well as the overall patient experience.

Orthopedic specialty clinics should definitely invest time in researching a number 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 orthopedic facility’s overall level of satisfaction with the implementation process and the software system.