Integrating EMR solutions with medical practice management software

Another essential software purchase for a medical office is medical practice management (MPM) software, which allows staffers to track patient demographics, visits, and diagnoses; collect, transmit, and track billing information and insurance payments; manage appointment scheduling; and generate a variety of reports. MPM software can improve the efficiency of an entire practice, from physicians and nurses to clerks and billing specialists.

Both MPM and EMR solutions are major purchasing decisions costing many thousands of dollars. Because of the magnitude and expense, it is usually advisable to purchase and install one at a time. However, to get the most out of both systems, it is important that they work well together.

The industry-standard HL7 protocol allows health care applications to share data with each other, so make sure both your EMR and MPM software use it. For truly seamless integration, you should not have to export batches of data from one and import them into the other – they should communicate in real time.

Many software vendors offer both types of software or even one software package that combines the functions of both. They also share many characteristics, so it often makes sense to look into both at the same time. Of course, the easiest way to ensure seamless integration is to buy both systems from the same vendor. However, you may find that the provider with the MPM that is ideal for your business does not offer the best EMR solution.

Both solutions are critical to the day-to-day functioning of your office, so be sure to choose them based on your specific needs, not solely on convenience.

Users will always have questions. How much contextual help is included? Are there pop-up "tool tips" to explain various buttons? Is the "F1" help system … helpful?

Read the MPM Software Buyer's Guide for more information.

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