Customer Successes
A more efficient practice management – An EMR case study
Overview
Dr. Shela Ebrahim is a family physician who works out of the Westview Clinic in
Challenges
Westview Clinic began investigating EMR vendors as early as 2003. Looking to the future and a growing practice, this team of doctors wanted to transition to a paperless office. They did not want the burden of managing a new computer system but there could be no compromise in security or reliability.
Dr. Ebrahim recognized that the electronic medical records (EMR) as the way of the future. "I wanted to save time and I knew that a good part of that involved doing the same or more work, but without a huge volume of paper."
They desired a gradual transition but wanted to ensure that they went with a partner that would help facilitate their process and pace. The Westview Clinic hoped to start by converting all files and lab reports and then expand to include electronic prescriptions and eventually expanding to all aspects of the practice.
The Nightingale Solution
The Westview Clinic decided that the Internet based Nightingale On Demand would allow each physician to access patient data 24/7 from any location. The high level of security in the system provided helped confirm that the time was right to make the transition. "As soon as I saw what Nightingale had to offer I was impressed. We had done our research about electronic medicine applications so when we saw what they could do we knew this was the way to go."
Results
When the Westview Clinic implemented electronic medical records (EMR), Dr. Ebrahim was the first physician to make the switch.
"When I started this transition I was at best an intermediate computer user. I wondered what would happen when I started down this road. In the beginning, there was a steep learning curve, but I got help from Nightingale and I was always confident I could do it. As we started using the practice management system I learned very quickly that this would work for me and it wouldn't be as difficult as I had originally feared." Once the implementation began, the progression was rapid. Upon completing Nightingale's training program and applying that knowledge toward using the system effectively, she found that the Nightingale On Demand Electronic Medical Records (EMR) made her work in many ways easier.
Nightingale On Demand is a web based Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and incorporates medical profiles, diagnostic imaging, correspondence, lab reports, prescriptions and correspondence. A physician can be out of the office and view schedules, patient records, lab and diagnostic tests remotely from any computer.
Dr. Ebrahim is pleased about is the company's online and telephone support. "When we need a hand with a system problem, Nightingale is right there with the solution we need. They go out of their way to make sure we are getting what we need and everyone in the office appreciates that."
Patient reactions
Dr. Ebrahim stated that the benefits of the system went beyond running a more efficient practice.
"With Nightingale On Demand we can view lab results the same day, even after hours and we receive alert notifications for any irregular results. This allows us to call patients with same day results. It eases their anxiety. People appreciate that. They also appreciate that I can write a prescription and immediately send it to a pharmacy that has an on line service. That means the order will be ready and waiting when the patient goes to pick it up."
Moving Forward
As she looks ahead, Dr. Ebrahim's eventual goal is to not have a scrap of paper in the office.
"Next we want to start using the advanced document system. That will help make our practice more proactive in health management."
"An EMR makes the work easier and more efficient. Every new system has glitches that need to be worked out but I would never want to go back to the old way of doing things"
