Tomorrow’s Otolaryngology ENT Practice Software TODAY

What is Otolaryngology ENT Software?

At a basic level, otolaryngology software electronically stores patient medical information. Ideally, the software not only takes into account the unique needs of otolaryngologists, it also helps them spend more time with patients. But no matter how modern or feature-filled an electronic medical record (EMR) is, unless it easily integrates with all other software used in the otolaryngology practice—everything from testing devices to billing software—it’s not a good choice.

Tomorrow’s Software Today

Today’s patients expect simple, fast, multi-channel communication with all their providers, along with virtual visits when appropriate. To keep up, otolaryngology practices must provide secure text and chat for appointment making, automated appointment reminders, electronic registration, mobile check-in, telehealth connected to EHR, and automated e-billing and statements.

5 Ways Modern EMRs Benefit Otolaryngologists

1. Simplify coding. EMRs that are difficult to learn, counterintuitive to use, and require multiple steps for simple tasks can lead to physician burnout. In a survey of otolaryngologists by Johns Hopkins Medical Center, 63% of those surveyed cited Epic documentation as a contributing factor for burnout. Because of coding complexity, otolaryngologists need software that improves efficiency by quickly leading them through the process to enter, for example, a type of sinus issue or ear-infection category.
2. Streamline e-prescribing. Otolaryngology conditions are sometimes caused by allergies, making drug interactions more likely. An otolaryngology EMR with a strong focus on drug interactions lowers the need for manual mediation reconcilliation and helps patients avoid harmful interactions.
3. Improve device integration and data management. Strong interfaces with audiogram software, rhinometers, sleep-study equipment, and labs is essential for otolaryngologists. Just as important is the ability to record and store the large amounts of data generated by these tests/devices and easily manage all data workflows.
4. Supply customizable templates. Look for an EMR that provides templates for common ENT issues, including allergies, snoring, thryroid conditions, hearing loss, TMJ and jaw pain, Meniere’s disease, and ear pain. The supplied templates should be easily customizable to your practice’s encounters and workflow.
5. Improve revenue cycle management (RCM). You may think you need more staff or expertise to solve your A/R issues—the truth is today’s technology can identify and fix lost revene from patient balances and unpaid claims; benchmark your reimbursement rates; and help you understand how to increase patient satisfaction, increase revenue on routine appointments, and reduce no-shows.

What’s the Biggest Mistake Otolaryngologists Make When Choosing an Office Solution?

No matter how modern or feature-filled a system is, unless it is integrated with all other office software used in the otolaryngology clinic, it will not be able to give you the granular data you need for RCM. Put simply, the otolaryngology software you select should help providers:

• Provide in-office and remote patient care
• Quickly create superbills
• Easily track revenue to avoid leaks
• Create customized notetaking templates
• Create dashboards to track patient progress
• Easily gather data from audiograms and rhinometers

Lastly, the otolaryngology office system should be able to quickly integrate with patient-facing systems such as patient portals and personal electronic medical records.

Sources:

1. Wei, Eric, et al. “Burnout in Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery.” Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, accessed 22 September 2021. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/otolaryngology/_docs/EWei_Burnout_AAOHNSF_2019_Poster_002.pdf
2. Garcia, Mike. “Best Otolaryngology ENT EMR Software Buyer’s Guide 2021.” EMR Systems, 14 September 2021. https://www.emrsystems.net/otolaryngology-ent-emr/
3. Ibid.