How to Optimize EHR Documentation for Better Patient Outcomes

As a healthcare provider running your own practice, you know that managing patient care can be a complex and time-consuming task. One of the most important aspects of patient care is documentation, and having the right tools in place can make all the difference. In this post, we’ll share six tips for better documenting care using an electronic health record (EHR) system.

Utilize templates

Most practice management software comes with pre-built templates for common conditions and procedures. Using these templates can save you a lot of time and ensure consistency in your documentation. By using the same template for all patients with a particular condition, you can ensure that all of the important information is captured and that your notes are easy to read and understand.

Customize Your EHR Templates

One of the best ways to optimize EHR documentation is to customize your templates. Many EHR systems offer pre-built templates that are designed to be generic and cover a wide range of scenarios. However, these templates may not be tailored to your specific needs or the needs of your patients. By customizing your templates, you can ensure that you capture all the necessary information for each patient encounter while reducing the amount of time it takes to document.
To customize your templates, start by identifying the common elements that you include in every patient encounter, such as vital signs, medications, and allergies. Then, create a template that includes these elements and any other information specific to your practice or patient population.

Learn more about how to customize templates with companyOn here!

Document in real-time

Try to document patient encounters as they happen, rather than waiting until later. This can help to ensure that important details are not forgotten, and it also makes it easier to provide continuity of care. By documenting patient encounters in real-time, you can also be sure that the information is accurate and up-to-date.

Using Voice Recognition Technology

Typing on a keyboard or touchscreen can be time-consuming, especially when you’re on the go. Fortunately, many EHR systems now offer voice recognition technology that allows you to dictate your notes instead of typing them. Voice recognition technology can significantly reduce the time it takes to document patient encounters, allowing you to focus more on providing care. 

If the device you use to access CompanyOn offers voice recognition technology, you can use this capability to document care within CompanyOn. Please refer to your device manual to learn more and give it a try.

Using EHRs with Mobile-Friendly Interfaces

When you’re on the go, you need an EHR system with a mobile-friendly interface that allows you to access patient data quickly and easily. Look for EHR systems that offer mobile apps or web-based interfaces that are optimized for use on smartphones and tablets. These interfaces should be easy to navigate, with simple menus and quick access to commonly used features.

Using an EHR system with a mobile-friendly interface can significantly reduce the time it takes to document patient encounters and access patient data, allowing you to provide more efficient and effective care.

CompanyOn uses a mobile-friendly interface that allows you to access it on any device, from anywhere at any time.

Using Patient Portals to Engage Patients

Finally, using patient portals can help you engage patients in their care and reduce documentation time. Patient portals allow you to engage patients in advance and request information electronically prior to care, schedule appointments and communicate with their healthcare providers. By encouraging patients to use these portals, you can reduce the time it takes to document patient encounters and ensure that patients have access to important information.

CompanyOn online services allow you to create a patient portal and communicate with patients in a more efficient way. Check out how it works here.

In conclusion, effective documentation of patient care is a critical aspect of providing quality healthcare, and utilizing the right tools can make all the difference. By using EHR templates, customizing them to fit your practice’s specific needs, documenting patient encounters in real-time, utilizing voice recognition technology, and using mobile-friendly EHR interfaces and patient portals, you can streamline your documentation process and ultimately provide more efficient and effective care to your patients. At CompanyOn, we provide a range of services that support these best practices and help you optimize your EHR documentation for better patient outcomes.

At CompanyOn, we are dedicated to providing unwavering support to our community of solo practitioners, no matter where they are in their journey towards professional independence. We believe in fostering open communication and collaboration with our valued community members, and would be delighted to hear from you regarding any specific topics you would like us to address. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected] with your suggestions or feedback.