As previous users of Officemate/Examwriter, the other doctors at our practice and I used iPads through a terminal server. This means we used iPads in the exam room with Officemate/Examwriter. When we first got them we were excited, and our patients were too. Seeing the doctor documenting the exam on the iPad gave the impression that the doctor was up-to-date. The cool factor was so high that many patients commented on it.
We have since transitioned to RevolutionEHR, which currently does not have an iPad application, but is in the process of developing one. As the IT leader at our practice, I saw this as a setback, because the doctors would not be able to use their ultra-portable and popular iPads. However, RevolutionEHR has multiple efficiencies and seamless integration within the practice management software, so it was easy for us to make the move, even though we had to go back to the clunkier and more cumbersome laptops. Although the software was a great move, the lack of an iPad application was discouraging. Yes, I could continue to use the iPad through the terminal server, but we needed to eliminate the need of a server and network. Through this process I found the iPad being fun and trendy was not nearly as important as the increased workflow efficiencies.
- Data Entry – Many optometrists spend time writing letters. By that, of course, I mean, generating letters from their EHR software. It is always nice to type in a personal note to the physician you are referring to. Typing in a personal note or unique documentation of any kind requires you to use the keypad. Yes, many people are fast typist on the iPad, but it is more difficult than a laptop keyboard.
- Textexpander – This is an application that is available on both the iPad and Macbook. It is most efficiently used on the Macbook. As optometrists we document many of the same types of phrases throughout the work day. With textexpander you can use key stroke shortcuts to immediately populate a box in your software instead of trying to locate where that exactcheckbox or drop down is.
- Type “;rtc”
- Get “Schedule patient to RTC in 12 months(s) for Comprehensive Encounter. Optos or Dilate Category: pre appoint”
- Multiple screen view – One of the biggest disappointments of a tablet is the inability to view multiple functional screens at one time. With the Macbook I am able to view my EHR and Optos Advance image at the same time or view the OCT while doing an interpretation and report. Do you communicate by Skype or Google chat throughout the office? I know it works good on the iPad, but it functions even more efficiently on the Macbook.
The iPad is a great tool and patients do love the impression that it gives. Personally, I love what technology can do for the practice, but not at the cost of efficiency. As optometrists we are constantly being asked to do more in less amount of time. To avoid getting bogged down in the additional workload we are tasked to do, we must learn to use technology in a way that works for us and not against us. Don’t trade efficiency in your workflow for the cool factor in patients’ perception.
We are a 4 doc/4 location practice and have used Omate for 16yrs.
Ive not implemented the omate ehr due to the expected inefficiencies.
I was going to make the switch to Revolution this simmer but the new Eyefinty ehr looks good but still has the same old PM sever. Or thought about waiting on Uprise. Have you got any advice for an OCD OD.
Being on the other side of a software conversion, I can safely say that it was more than worth it. I have been able to cut our costs down significantly on network administration. My opinion of the Eyefinity EHR system is that is continues to run parallel to the PM system. That is inefficient and leaves room for communication problems b/n the two, just like OM/EW. I was told by OM @ Optometry’s Meeting this summer that the EHR and PM would run “together” but separate. I asked if you would have to log into each separate application….their answer…Yes. RevolutionEHR is not perfect in anyway as they do need some fine tuning in the accounting department, however, you can balance where OM/EW never truly balanced. I have also liked RevolutionEHR b/c I don’t feel like our practice is on an island trying to meet meaningful use, they have created a fantastic community of users that communicate well. There is not a perfect answer, but we have significantly improved our office efficiencies with the upgrade to RevolutionEHR. One more thing, customer service for RevolutionEHR knows their stuff and we can count on answers they give us. Hope that helps.
Chad, Thanks for the post. How do you like Revolution EHR. How does it work with the cloud?
Can you compare it to Crystal EHR?
Thanks
Lynn
The cloud works great. We have a relatively dependable and fast internet 15-30 download/3-5 upload speed. If a practice has fast speeds available 15 down/2-3 up then the cloud is great. I have found that the cloud has allowed us to save a significant amount of money in hardware as the 14″ HP Chromebook works great ($298 new) as a mobile workstation for each staff. We will be free of the network within the next year as we only use it to view archived records of Officemate. I do not personally have experience with CrystalEHR, however, when I was lecturing last year on meaningful use I had numerous ODs tell me how much they liked CrystalEHR. Crystal is not on the “stay away from this software” list. Crystal also has good reviews, like RevolutionEHR, on ehrcompare.com. The reviews seem to be accurate from what I have heard. Hands down, the cloud has been a great experience and has helped improve workflow efficiencies within the office.
Is it possible to run Officemate/Examwriter cloud version on Chromebooks? If so, which one(s) have you used successfully?
The Chromebooks can run OM/EW using a remote desktop application. We use the HP 14″ Chromebook. I did have some setup issues initially but it works pretty smoothly. Sorry I didn’t get back with you sooner. Let me know through optometryceo@gmail.com if you have more specific questions.