Eyeworld

I WHAT OPHTHALMOLOGISTS SHOULD BE DOING TODAY N FOCUS 52 | EYEWORLD | OCTOBER 2019 Contact information Davis: rdavis@ocli.net Jacobs: Carrie.Jacobs@chuvision.com Koch: wkoch@texasretina.com Simerson: candysimerson@gmail.com Mr. Koch said the practice where he works uses a paperless technology solution for patients to check in, which automatically populates EHR with demographic data, insurance data, and consents. Ms. Simerson noted that most EHR systems allow the user to create "my phrases" and other shortcuts that can make for efficient documentation. Overall, Ms. Simerson said she thinks EHRs can enhance documentation when used appropriately with proper training proto- cols and ongoing monitoring to ensure compli- ance with guidelines. In terms of enhancing cost effectiveness of EHRs, Mr. Koch said "it is what it is." "Mandated EHR utilization is more about gathering and exchanging data to improve healthcare outcomes and control costs," he said. Ms. Simerson said that an independent, neutral consultant can help advise and assist with selection and contract negotiation when purchasing a new EHR system. The practice should buy only what they need and not sign up for an indefinite commitment, she said. In addition to potentially increasing phy- sician efficiency, Ms. Simerson said use of scribes—with proper training and protocols— can reduce physician burnout. Scribes should be trained to anticipate what the physician will say and what needs to be in the record for proper reimbursement, she explained, noting that they also can add value by asking the physician ques- tions if something in the visit gets missed. "Generally, scribes tend to be people who are seeking higher education and perhaps taking a break to learn more. The average turnover rate is about 25% so plan for ongoing recruit- ment and have a formalized training program so they can quickly learn and add the most value," Ms. Simerson said. Enhancing EHR use Dr. Davis said he uses iMedicWare, which was designed with input from ophthalmologists. For efficiency, he said systems should mini- mize the number of screens opened and clicks per encounter, have automation for regularly repeated tasks with little lag time, and a small learning curve. The capability to add a dictation file, unless you're a fast typist, is very useful, Dr. Davis said. continued from page 51 Reference 1. Myrick KL, et al. Table. Percent- age of office-based physicians using any electronic health record (EHR)/electronic medical record (EMR) system and physicians that have a certified EHR/EMR system, by U.S. state: National Electronic Health Records Survey, 2017. Na- tional Center for Health Statistics. January 2019. Relevant financial interests Davis: None Jacobs: None Koch: None Simerson: iCandy Consulting

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