An Electronic Medical Records Software, or more commonly known as EMR Software, is an electronic version of a patient’s overall medical history. In addition to the patient records, EMR Systems also perform some integrated functions to help medical practices ease-out the workload from the staff and relieve them of all the stress due to repetitive tasks which can be taken care of through the software. Some of these integrated functionalities include Patient Scheduling, e-Prescribing (e-Rx), Appointment Reminders, Medical Billing, and Practice Management.

Usually, Electronic Health Records (EHR) Software are maintained by one provider, but with the advent of smart sharing functionalities, they can be shared to specialists and other caregivers who might need access to these records. While this fact holds true, specialty-specific EHR Software are still in trend and help practices operating in specific specialties manage data according to their workflows. Same is the case with Optometry EMR Software.

Here are some pros and cons of using an Optometry EMR Software which will help you decide if you really need one.

Advantages of Optometry EMR Software

  • Financial Incentive for Providers

Optometry practices with a certified EHR Solution meet the necessary requirements of Meaningful Use and qualify for a certain financial incentive under the Medicaid or Medicare incentive program.

  • Accurate Medical Billing

The billing record is accurately kept and helps verify patient data against the insurance companies. This also helps in getting faster reimbursements.

  • Improved Productivity

When repetitive and monotonous tasks get automated through the use of software, practice staff can invest their time in more important tasks and get better results.

  • Easier Documentation

Error-free documentation is made possible since no room for human-error is left when patient data is recorded on a computer system instead of paper.

  • Preventative Health Tool

Doctors can use properly recorded patient data to suggest potential preventative actions which can save their patients from serious health issues in the future.

Disadvantages of Optometry EMR Software

  • Data Security

Data stored online is prone to hacks and leaks. One such attack, i.e., a ransomware attack can encrypt the EHR, making all data inaccessible until a “ransom” is paid to restore the software to its initial state.

  • HIPAA Violation

A leak of data through the EMR Software can result in a HIPAA violation that can cost you around $100 to $1.5M.

  • Heavy on the Budgets

Electronic Medical Records (EMR) Solutions are not cheap. They can cost you a considerable amount and the investment may go to waste if you find out that the software is just not for you.

  • Regular Updates

EMR Software require regular updates during which they undergo a certain downtime. This can interrupt your practice workflow and disrupt your operations.

  • Computer Access

The software always needs to be accessed via a PC unless the software offers Mobile Support. This can make things difficult for you since you won’t be able to access the data remotely.