Healthcare has shifted certain operations to be cloud-based so that patients can be provided with both the best and most convenient delivery of healthcare services. One prominent advancement is the advent of cloud-based EHRs (Electronic Health Records). With Free EMR, practices have boosted their operational efficiency while patients have increased confidence about the accuracy and safety of their clinical information. These records offer a wide array of features that facilitate the handling of clinical data and ease the lengthy and cumbersome documentation process, which improves the patient management process. The following six points summarize the advantages of cloud-based EHRs:
Cloud-Based EHR Software Advantages
- Enhanced Accuracy and Accessibility of Data
Cloud-based EHRs have the primary objective of making patient medical data available to the patient and providers 24-7. These records can be accessed on-the-go by way of any smart device. And, all of the information contained in these records is accurate, complete, and all-encompassing, which enables providers to determine the most appropriate diagnosis for future ailments and prescribe effective medication with a reduced chance of error.
- Networking Opportunities
Cloud-based EHRs have features that allow patients and providers to have a constant and uninterrupted stream of contact between them. Providers can view their scheduled appointments in there and they will also be updated about the date and time of upcoming appointments. If providers want more information about the patient, it can be obtained by simply clicking over the patient’s name. Additionally, patients can be reminded automatically by phone or email about their appointments with their doctors as well. With Free EHR, as a provider, you can stay connected to all the pharmacies, labs, and clinics your practice might be affiliated with, thereby enhancing your network, too.
- Cost-Efficient Data Management
Cloud-based EHRs make thorough and accurate documentation possible. You get to avoid stacks of papers yet have the ability to create useful formal reports out of the data stored in the EHR. You will also notice a reduction in the number of redundant or duplicate tests once you adopt these cloud-based EHRs. They have all the ICD and CPT codes integrated to help the providers reach the most suitable diagnosis and treatment in the quickest amount of time possible. These codes make the insurance claims more specific and clear, hence easing the billing process. And, with comprehensive and carefully filed insurance claims, you’ll lessen the chances of denial or rejection. With that, cloud-based EHRs considerably reduce the associated costs of data management.
- Increased Efficiency and Productivity
Prior to the introduction of cloud-based EHRs, providers worldwide spent a lot of time sifting through documents and finding relevant data for delivering quality patient care. There used to be room for unexpected errors which negatively impacted the quality of medical services and also caused delays. Cloud-based EHRs have helped to increase efficiency, and make it easier for providers to achieve maximum productivity throughout the workday.
- Information Security
Cloud-based EHRs software store data on external servers which makes it accessible by way of any internet-enabled device. The software as a service (SAAS) provider maintains the system so the provider does not have to worry about the installation cost or ongoing maintenance hassles. Patient’s data security on cloud-based EHRs is a shared responsibility of both the SAAS provider and the physician. All the patient information in cloud-based EHRs is considered electronic protected health information (ePHI) and it is fully covered under strict regulations of the HIPAA act. Cloud-based EHRs heavily safeguard this sensitive information while ensuring easy access for authorized persons.
Source: Dr. Amna Younus, MPH