Features Offered by Psychiatry EMRs
There are certain features that you will want in any type of EMR software, such as the ability to digitize patient and progress notes and prescription management. But, there are also features that are a necessity for psychiatric practices.
- Advanced note management: It is important that psychiatrists are able to access notes from previous patient sessions easily and quickly. Advanced note management features allow for this, as well as being able to link progress notes directly to recorded treatment plans.
- GAF charts:G Monitoring the degree and severity of psychosocial factors is a large part of psychiatric work. Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) charts provide the ability to rate the occupational, psychological, and social functioning of patients via graphical depictions.
- Behavioral health and psychiatry note templates: Specialty note templates let professionals accurately and directly notate specific aspects, functions, and qualities of patients. Templates include addiction, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and psychosis, to name a few. These templates can be used either in their pre-existing form or customized to better suit your practice’s needs.
- Psychiatric ICD-9 billing and coding: All specialties have terminology that is unique to their field, and psychiatry is no different. The right EMR software solution should have features that allow for detailed support for mental health coding and billing, without adding codes and terminology that are unnecessary.
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How Much Does Psychiatry EMR Cost?
Psychiatry EMR software prices vary depending on several factors, including additional features or hardware, implementation time, the size of the medical practice, and the type of software. In addition, different vendors have different prices.
- ASP/web-based EMR systems: These systems typically cost between $200 and $1,000 and software updates are generally included in this price. Since they have fewer hardware needs, they have a lower upfront cost. Web-based EMR systems usually have servers bill either annually or monthly. It should be noted, though, that these systems are slower than those with a server in the facility and are susceptible to disrupted internet connections; a T-1 line is absolutely necessary
- Client server EMR systems: Though more expensive than web-based systems, client server EMR systems are faster and do not come with the risk of disrupted connections. Prices tend to range between $2,500 and $5,000 per user and, while some companies include software training in that price, others may charge an additional $1,000 to $3,000 for installation and training. Some companies may offer different payment options, such as charging $0.50 to $1 per patient visit and often include software support as a part of that pricing package.
While cost is a major factor in deciding which EMR software to purchase, it is not the only factor; always make sure to check any and all available reviews before making a final purchasing decision.
Benefits of Psychiatry EMR
If implemented correctly and successfully, psychiatry EMR software can greatly benefit your practice. Whether you choose a web-based or client server system, EMR software makes things easier both for you and your patients. Benefits include, but are not limited to:
Billing management: Medical billing involves a lot of documentation and paperwork and is even more arduous and complicated when payments come from a third-party insurance company. EMR software provides the ability to pull all of that information from existing patient records to save time on the billing process.
Electronic patient charting: Traditionally, patient charting involves a lot of handwritten data entry and paperwork. Electronic patient charting allows for the capture and retrieval of all necessary and relevant information.
Integrated calendars and scheduling: A psychiatrist’s schedule needs to be available and up-to-date for booking staff and receptionists to avoid over- or double-booking. EMR software with integrated calendars and scheduling provides this information in real time and allows staff to reschedule whenever necessary. Some systems even send patients email or text notifications that provide details and reminders about upcoming appointments.
Patient notes: Having all of your patient notes in a single, digitized location allows for the quick retrieval of patient details. Other features, such as progress reports and treatment plans, are available in EMR patient notes, allowing for quick tweaks and updates.