A large amount of evidence indicates that AI has multiple use cases throughout the healthcare delivery system, for instance, in analyzing diagnostic images or correlating symptoms, along with biomarkers from electronic medical records (EMRs) and the characterization and treatment outcomes of diseases. It is believed that AI holds the ability to bring improvements to any process within healthcare operation and delivery. Additionally, it is estimated that AI applications would make it possible for the healthcare sector to potentially save USD 150 billion annually by 2026.

Here’s how healthcare professionals, as well as patients have started benefiting from AI:

1. Consumer Health Applications

Al and ML have made it possible for several consumer health applications and self-monitoring devices such as wireless-enabled devices, activity trackers, smartwatches, and other physical fitness monitoring to encourage people to take proactive measures for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. These applications also allow consumers to be in control of their health and well-being. This in turn can help healthcare professionals to better understand their patient’s needs. With insightful real-time data, caregivers can provide necessary guidance and support for positive outcomes and long-term positive growth for the healthcare industry.

2. General Purpose Learning Algorithms for Pattern Recognition

AI, ML, natural language processing (NLP) and deep learning (DL) have proven to be of great value for healthcare stakeholders and medical professionals to identify healthcare needs and solutions faster and with more accuracy. Large and complex data sets are used to educate and train computer models for pattern recognition and develop its decision-making ability and even predict likely outcomes.

3. Minimally Invasive Surgery

Artificial Intelligence has the potential to play a role in preoperative and interoperative planning in the form of surgical robotics. AI powered robot-assisted surgery has been found to drastically reduce the length of patient stay in the hospital. With the help of AI, robots can perform the following procedures in surgery:

1. Analyzing the medical records of the patients
2. Guide the surgical instruments during the surgical procedure based on records
3. Utilize patients’ previous history to recommend newer surgical techniques

4. Drug Research and Discovery

Although drug research and discovery is one of the more recent applications of AI in healthcare, this application of AI is expected to be worth USD 8,419 Million by 2026. This is a result of the growing confidence in the potential of AI in reimagining drug discovery. AI has the potential to move drug screening from paper to virtual lab with comparatively less extensive inputs and manpower.

5. Smart Workflow Management

AI-powered solutions can assist in accurately scheduling and planning of medical staff rotation by extracting and factoring information such as number of staff, competencies required to perform the tasks and availability of specific equipment. Automatic resource allocation based on needs, urgency, and expertise makes the entire workflow management process easier and more efficient.

AI is delivering significant results today—and its potential to shape the future of the healthcare industry is even greater. However, successful implementation of AI in healthcare largely depends on how experienced and skilled your technology partner is, as well as their readiness to evolve and support you during AI deployment and system customization.

As an integrated application suite, iPatientCare delivers robust healthcare technology; our products and solutions are specially designed for new-age healthcare, addressing the challenges in real-world clinical environments. If you have questions or want to know about potential AI applications for your organization, contact us today.

The five tips below are worth noting for strengthening the healthcare setting, as we all strive to become more agile and better prepared for the next crisis.

• Create a Frictionless Experience

Like other industries, healthcare has shifted towards a customer-focused model where personalization and relevancy matter. Patients are increasingly demanding to meet with providers via telemedicine, with accompanying online portals for managing all aspects of their health. Patient portals create a more convenient and easier way to access medical records. When it does become necessary to visit a provider in person, patients expect a one-stop visit rather than five separate visits.

Requirements to create a frictionless experience:

1. An on-premises system with cloud-based applications
2. Interconnected ecosystem for data to flow in real time
3. Automated data sharing between systems and business processes

• Digital Transformations

No industry has remained untouched when it comes to digital transformation. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, some healthcare providers hadn’t felt enough urgency to implement digital technologies. Today, however, the healthcare industry has reached a point where it must leverage both, new and existing technologies to achieve greater digital transformation. This can take significant time and effort, and therefore requires significant initiatives to ensure alignment with end goals while also demonstrating value along the way.

Significant initiatives required for digital transformations:

1. Standardization of care processes
2. Implementation of population health programs
3. Integration of care across multiple venues
4. Creation of digital front-door capabilities
5. Implementation of telehealth

• Cloud-Based Technologies and Analytics

Cloud computing has transformed how the healthcare industry functions. The impact of the cloud in healthcare extends beyond an advanced method of storing health information. It is also about enabling the right care, at the right place, and at the right time. Considering the current healthcare scenario, leaders are increasingly looking for solutions that not only help enable faster and easier adoption of new capabilities, but also provide a secure, integrated, and expansive foundation to support a patient’s journey across healthcare settings and can evolve to keep up with the changing needs of tomorrow.

• Data Integrations

The healthcare industry is witnessing an explosion in data from connected devices like home-monitoring sensors and wearables. As data volume increases, so does the need for data management. This is where data integration comes into play. With the interoperability of applications, information, data, and technologies, a cohesive platform connects broken data management processes such as data collection, storage, integration, and analysis. Additionally, platforms such as iPatientCare, offer a 360^o view of a patient’s healthcare journey for effective decision making.

• Predictive Analytics

The use of predictive analytics in the healthcare industry is expected to become more prevalent and advanced in the coming years. Health IT providers are developing their own analytics engines to help healthcare providers deliver excellent care across the care continuum. Some are even partnering with healthcare institutions to build proprietary algorithms with an aim at improving clinical care, administrative performance, and operational efficiency. In alignment, healthcare leaders are keen to partner with health technology companies who can cater to a broad range of areas including specialized healthcare management services, guidance for data analysis, access to innovative technology, and mass customization.

The enormous potential of predictive analytics includes:

• Helping identify patients at risk for chronic conditions
• Developing evidence-based best practices
• Proactively spotting probable obstacles to care plan adherence

On a larger scale, it can enable health systems to identify and understand larger trends, leading to improved population health strategies.

The necessity to effectively address the healthcare crisis has boosted the adoption of healthcare software solutions worldwide. Patient expectations have also greatly evolved. For medical practices and other businesses in the healthcare sector, these areas can become a true game-changer.

If you’re looking for a technology partner that can help you stay ahead of the curve, iPatientCare can help. As an integrated application suite, iPatientCare delivers robust healthcare technology; our products and solutions are specially designed for new-age healthcare, which is both cost-effective and timesaving. We continue to develop our technology to meet the evolving needs of the ever-changing healthcare system.

Contact us today to learn more about how our solutions can help you strengthen your healthcare organization.

When it comes to healthcare, this gap is especially apparent. Rural areas are often left behind when it comes to new healthcare technologies, due to the lack of infrastructure and funding. However, some technological advances are particularly beneficial for rural areas and have the potential to save lives and improve healthcare.

One of the significant problems faced by rural areas is a lack of access to care. This is often due to a shortage of doctors and hospitals in these areas. However, technology is beginning to change this scenario.

With the development of telemedicine, access to care in rural areas has increased. Doctors utilize technology such as video conferencing to provide care to patients who cannot meet in person or travel to the necessary location. Patients in rural areas can now get the care they need without traveling long distances.

Another issue is lack of resources. This includes resources like trained staff, equipment, and supplies. Although improved technology is beginning to change this as well. For example, apps can now help people with medical conditions to better manage their care themselves. New devices can also be used to diagnose and treat patients in remote areas. Additionally, drones can even deliver medical supplies to some areas that are difficult to reach.

Unfortunately, a major problem with healthcare technology is the high cost. This can be a barrier to both patients and providers in rural areas. However, some programs and initiatives are working to help reduce the cost of healthcare technology. For example, the Rural Healthcare Technology Program (RHTP) provides funding for projects that aim to improve access to care or reduce the cost of care in rural areas.

How can Providers in Rural Health Clinics use Technology and Avail its Benefits?

Technology can help rural healthcare providers in several ways. For example, a robust Electronic Health Record (EHR) can help providers keep track of patients’ medical history and medications. This information can be accessed from anywhere, which is helpful for providers who might need to refer to it while away from the office. It can also help providers manage their schedules and communicate with other care team members.

Additionally, technology can help providers connect with specialists who might not be available in their area. This can be done through video conferencing and online consultation. And finally, it also helps providers educate their patients about their health, using tools like patient portals and health information websites.

In summation, it is evident that technology has a lot to offer rural health clinics. Increasing access to care, reducing the cost of care, and improving communication and education can all help improve the quality of care in rural areas.

Although there are still some challenges, it is essential to remember that technology can be a powerful tool when implemented correctly. It has the potential to transform healthcare into an interconnected healthcare system that is more accessible, efficient, and effective.

Rural health clinics are essential to the healthcare system and improving the quality of care in these areas should be a priority. With the right policies and initiatives, technology can help turn this into a reality.

iPatientCare has been working with several rural healthcare centers and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) across the globe. We provide mHealth/Telehealth solutions and services that enable rural healthcare providers to render quality, patient-centered care at par with their urban counterparts. For more information, please contact us today.

What other ways can technology help improve healthcare in rural areas? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

The recent introduction and adaptation of Blockchain Technology in different industries have made it clear that Blockchain is the future. Blockchain Technology has the potential to revolutionize the healthcare industry by providing a secure, efficient, and decentralized platform for healthcare data management. It can also help tackle various other issues faced by the healthcare industry, such as data security, interoperability, and data sharing.

The development and use of Blockchain Technology have significantly impacted its popularity in various industries, and now the global healthcare Blockchain market is projected to reach 829 million dollars by 2023, up from 53.9 million dollars in 2018, at a CAGR of 72.8%.

How will Blockchain change the way we manage our health data?

To understand this, we first need to understand the concept of Blockchain. Blockchain is a distributed database that allows multiple parties to share information without a central authority. Due to this structure, no single entity can control or tamper with the data. Moreover, all transactions are transparent and secure, as they are verified by all the participants in the network using cryptographic methods.

Currently, our health data is managed by various centralized entities such as hospitals, insurance companies, and government bodies. This makes it challenging to access our data and increases the chances of data breaches. Blockchain can help solve these problems by providing a decentralized platform for storing and managing health data.

For example, if you were to go to the hospital for a check-up, and the doctor prescribes you medication, the prescription would be entered into the Blockchain network by the hospital. Now, whenever you refill that prescription, the pharmacy would be able to access your medical records via the Blockchain and verify your prescribed medication.

In addition to saving time, this would also reduce the chances of errors. Moreover, since the data is stored on a decentralized network, it would be significantly more difficult for hackers to access and tamper with your medical records.

Blockchain Technology also has the potential to improve interoperability within the healthcare industry. To date, numerous siloed health information systems being utilized are not compatible with each other and there are multiple restrictions on how health data can be shared. This makes it difficult to exchange data between different entities. Blockchain can help solve this issue by providing a standardized platform for health data exchange to tackle the problem of data sharing.

For instance, if a patient is moving from one country to another, their medical records can be stored on the Blockchain and easily accessed by doctors in the new country rather than requiring a manual transfer of records. This would save time and ensure that the patient receives the best care possible.

Blockchain Technology undoubtedly has the potential to revolutionize the healthcare industry. It can provide a secure, efficient, and decentralized platform for healthcare data management, and address the various issues faced by the healthcare industry, such asdata security, interoperability, and data sharing. However, due to Blockchain still being in the early stages, certain challenges need to be addressed before the wider adoption of it in healthcare. These include the lack of standardization, scalability issues, regulatory hurdles, the need for a more robust infrastructure, and the high cost of implementation.

Many industries have already begun implementing Blockchain in some capacity. With the potential to transform how we manage our health data, the healthcare industry is a prime candidate to start implementing it as well.

What are your thoughts on Blockchain Technology? Do you think it has the potential to revolutionize the healthcare industry? Let us know in the comments below!

As an integrated application suite, iPatientCare delivers robust healthcare technology; our products and solutions are specially designed for new-age healthcare, which is both cost-effective and timesaving. We continue to develop our technology to meet the evolving needs of the ever-growing healthcare system, including expanding into Blockchain Technology in the near future.

Contact us today to learn more about how our solutions can help you provide excellent care for your patients.

Healthcare in the metaverse has the potential to be an interactive, immersive, and recreational experience tailored to every individual. It can provide new opportunities for healthcare providers to interact with patients in more intimate ways, such as walking through a three-dimensional model of the human body with patients, discussing diagnoses and treatments. This would allow providers to simulate the effect of a proposed treatment on the patient’s body before it is applied, creating a more personal and informative experience compared to what is currently possible with two-dimensional images on a screen.

Additionally, the metaverse could be an excellent place for people to socialize and interact with others dealing with similar health issues, providing a much-needed sense of community and support for people often isolated by their conditions. The metaverse has immense potential to change the way we think about healthcare, leading to a more intimate, immersive, and enlightening medical experience with a sense of community and support for those who need it the most. It is an exciting new frontier for healthcare technology to explore.

Benefits of Healthcare in the Metaverse

Per a recent study, US healthcare is estimated to spend $8.3 trillion by 2040, to adopt new and emerging health technologies. Two-thirds of this amount is expected to be spent on new-generation technology, well-being activities, and services.

If these estimates prove accurate, the future healthcare system will empower patients to monitor their health with AI-enabled digital assistants, consultation in virtual reality (VR) environments, treatment in a simulated setup, and surgeries in augmented reality (AR). These advancements may seem like science fiction today, but Healthcare in the metaverse could make them all possible.

The metaverse in healthcare remains in its infancy for now. It will take a few more decades for it to be fully integrated, but the metaverse has the potential to change everything from patient care to data management as technology advances.

Where are We Seeing Changes Today?

The metaverse involves the intersection of three major technologies — artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR). Individually, these technologies are already being utilized in healthcare to change how we diagnose and treat diseases, manage data, and even train surgeons.

Current implementations include:

• After seven years of clinical trials that studied over  600 children, The food and Drug Administration (FDA)authorized doctors to prescribe iPhone and iPad games for kids with ADHD between 8-12 years old.
• Johns Hopkins neurosurgeons have performed the institution’s first augmented reality surgeries on living patients. During the first procedure on June 8, 2020, the physicians placed six screws in a patient’s spine for spinal fusion surgery to fuse three vertebrae to relieve the patient’s chronic, debilitating back pain.
• Fundamental VR, a London-based digital health company, has started using VR to help train surgeons using the ‘Teaching Space’ feature, allowing multiple users to visit a virtual classroom for interactive lessons and meetings. It was also accredited by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and the Royal College of Surgeons to be available on standalone VR headsets such as Oculus Quest and HTC Vive Focus Plus.

While the metaverse is still in the initial stages, it is only a matter of time before healthcare in the metaverse becomes an integral piece of the healthcare ecosystem. Innovation is emerging with considerable potential for optimizing patient care and reducing challenges for healthcare IT providers.

With the capability to build the proper infrastructure, healthcare technology organizations can direct modern technology toward an immersive healthcare system and a better future for providers, patients, and caretakers alike.

Challenges of Healthcare in the Metaverse

Like any other industry, healthcare in the metaverse will encounter some challenges including data security, data interoperability, and regulations with a need for new infrastructure, rules, and procedures to allow for the adjustments. But once addressed, it could be used to address today’s healthcare issues in the most efficient and cost-effective ways.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Compliances:HIPPA is a set of standards that protect sensitive patients’ medical information (including PHI/ePHI) from being shared without their consent. And with every modern technology proliferation, HIPAA guidelines need to be updated to ensure that patient data remains protected.
As the metaverse evolves, it is important to remember that the metaverse is not one platform but many, each with its own set of rules and regulations. Healthcare organizations will need to stay on top of all the latest developments to ensure compliance.

Interoperability: In today’s healthcare ecosystem, interoperability remains one of the biggest challenges. Healthcare in metaverse would require a separate set of software and hardware to work together, which may seem like a daunting task, however, it is necessary.

Lack of Standards:There are no defined standards for healthcare in the metaverse yet. This means that every healthcare provider will have to create their metaverse environment, which can be time-consuming and expensive.

Security and Privacy: Healthcare data is some of the most sensitive information and needs to be protected at any cost. In the metaverse, there is a risk of data breaches and cyber-attacks. Healthcare organizations will need to have security protocols to protect patient’s data.

Cost:Creating a Healthcare metaverse environment will require significant financial investment. Healthcare organizations will need to invest in hardware, software, and staff training, which could be a barrier for smaller healthcare organizations.

iPatientCare delivers robust healthcare technology; our products and solutions are specially designed for new-age healthcare, that is both cost-effective and timesaving.

Our Electronic Health Record (EHR), Practice Management System (PMS), and Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) solutions are adopted by healthcare organizations across the globe, helping to provide better patient care. We continue to develop our technology to meet the evolving needs of the ever-growing healthcare system, including expanding into the Metaverse.

Contact us today to learn more about how our solutions can help you provide excellent care for you patients.

What is Patient-Generated Health Data (PGHD)?

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) defines PGHD as, “health-related data created, recorded, or gathered by or from patients (or family members or other caregivers) to help address a health concern.” PGHD includes patient-reported information collected through surveys and data produced by remote monitoring devices, mobile health applications, and wearable devices. PGHD can consist of, but is not limited to:

• Health history
• Treatment history
• Biometric data
• Symptoms
• Lifestyle choices

Integrating PGHD into an EHR

When PGHD is integrated into an Electronic Health Record (EHR) software, clinicians can use it to make more informed clinical decisions regarding patient care. Clinicians can integrate PGHD manually by entering it into their EHR when they see patients. Patients can directly upload PGHD data using patient portals either manually or via interoperability between devices and EHRs or portals.

The Benefits of Using PGHD

• Increase Patient Engagement and Satisfaction: Using PGHD to inform medical care decisions allows patients to take a more active role in their health. This increased level of engagement and empowerment can contribute to better health outcomes and increased patient satisfaction.

• Improved and Quicker Decision-making: Clinicians can use PGHD to make more informed and quicker decisions, visualizing trends, and spotting irregularities earlier.

• Reduce Costs: PGHD has the potential to avoid unnecessary routine tests and office visits. It also helps the patient understand their health conditions better and helps them avoid unnecessary suggested treatments, ultimately reducing the cost of care.

• Improved Outcomes: Data generated by a patient from their previous medical cases and treatments can assist clinicians in making a more informed health plan that could save the patient from future threats and sudden criticalities.

• Improve Population Health Management: When collected and analyzed correctly, PGDM can provide insights into population health trends. The gained information can be used to develop interventions and programs to improve the health of a population.

• Drive Research: By collecting data from large numbers of patients, researchers can identify patterns and trends that would not be apparent from smaller studies. This information can be used to develop new treatments and therapies.

The Challenges of Using PGHD

Lack of interoperability and data standards can make it difficult to collect data into one EHR platform. Some devices and platforms may not be compatible with each other yet, making the collection of PGHD a more manual process. Privacy and security are another concern of patients. When patients share their health information with clinicians, they expect their data to be safeguarded from unauthorized access. However, due to the lack of interoperability and standards, it might be challenging to ensure the security of PGHD.

Despite these challenges, PGHD has the potential to transform healthcare by making it more patient-centered and data-driven. When used correctly, PGHD can improve the standards of patient care delivery.

Where Do We Go From Here?

With improved communication, more complete data, earlier intervention, improved self-management, and increased patient engagement, the use of PGHD in outpatient clinics may have the potential to enhance care for those who are disproportionately impacted by chronic illness and for those with higher social risk factors such as low income, food insecurity, and housing instability.

iPatientCare offers a robust Electronic Health Record and is committed to providing patients with the best possible care. Our EHR software helps clinicians collect, store, manage and share patient data more efficiently and securely. It also allows patients to upload their PGHD health data, which their clinicians can access. Contact us today to learn more about our EHR software and how it can benefit your healthcare organization.

Are there other potential benefits or challenges of using PGHD that we didn’t mention? Let us know in the comments below.

Digital health has been transforming the patient experience by improving access to care, engagement, and care delivery,but advancements are still needed to improve the lives of front-line caregivers. Clinicians, physicians, nurses, therapists, healthcare practitioners, and other medical staff are constantly bombarded with lengthy administrative tasks such as order entry, navigating through screens to check previous reports and prescriptions, or filling out clinical documentation forms.

Related Post: How Care Management Decreases Health Risks and Healthcare Costs

A digitized healthcare system that supports caregivers’ workflows is critical to streamlining processes and reducing unnecessary work. An intuitive, easy to use, and collaborative system allows caregivers to focus their efforts on providing optimum patient care.

What do front-line caregivers need from a digitized healthcare system to improve their work experience?

• A system that handles administrative tasks: One of the main complaints from front line caregivers is the amount of administrative work they have to do. A digitized healthcare system could handle many of these tasks, such as order entry, clinical documentation and report entries. This would free up time for clinicians to provide care and improve their work-life balance.
• A system that is easy to use: Caregivers may be hesitant to adopt complicated digital health tools with large learning curves. A digitized healthcare system should be easy to use and allow them to focus on their patients, not the technology.
• A system that is customized for specialties: There are many different types of specialty caregivers, each with its own unique needs. A digitized healthcare system should be customizable for each specialty so that every specialty and patient can benefit.
• A system that helps with communication: Good communication is essential for providing care. A digitized healthcare system helps clinicians communicate with each other and their patients to improve care coordination and lead to better outcomes for patients.
• A system that is secure: One of the main concerns of caregivers is the security of digital health tools. A digitized healthcare system is built with security in mind so that they can feel confident that their patients’ information remains safe.
• A system that is interoperable: Lack of interoperability between digital healthcare practices is the major concern for providers. Digitized healthcare systems should be interoperable with each other so that they can easily share information and coordinate care.
• A system that is evidence-based and patient-centric: A digitized healthcare system should use evidence-based guidelines to help clinicians make the best decisions for their patients and keep patients at the center of all they do.

Would you add anything to this list? Let us know in the comments below.

Adopting new technology can seem like a daunting task. Healthcare technology has many potentials to help organizations achieve their goals, but only when it is implemented correctly. It’s imperative we focus on creating a digitized healthcare ecosystem that is user friendly, patient centric, and cost effective. Only then will we be able to improve the quality of care for everyone involved in the care process.

Digital transformation can be a daunting and lengthy process, but it is worth investing in your organization’s future. With years of experience and expertise in the field, iPatientCare can help you overcome any challenges and help digitize your healthcare practice. iPatientCare offers robust healthcare solutions including an electronic health record (EHR), practice management system (PMS), and revenue cycle management (RCM).

If you want to learn more about how we can help you digitize your practice, then contact us today. We are happy to answer any questions you have.

What is physician credentialing?

Physician credentialing, also known as medical or provider credentialing, is the process that validates physicians for delivering clinical care, wherein physician’s education, license, experience, certifications, affiliations, malpractice, any adverse clinical occurrences, and training are verified. It also involves conducting background checks and checking for any disciplinary actions against the physician. The physician credentialing process is important for both the physician and the healthcare organization, as it establishes trust between patients and physicians and ensures that only qualified physicians are providing care.

Who conducts physician credentialing?

In the United States, physician credentialing is typically done by various physician credentialing boards or organizations, both government and private, that establish these guidelines and physician credentialing criteria. For example, The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is a government organization that physician credentialing must adhere to in order to receive Medicare reimbursement. Similarly, The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) is a private physician credentialing organization that provides physician credentialing services to managed care organizations.

What is the typical timeframe for the physician credentialing process?

The physician credentialing process usually takes anywhere from 45 to 60 days, however, there is no defined time frame. It may take more or less time depending on the physician’s qualifications and the type of organization they are applying to.

What are some common physician credentialing mistakes made by physicians?

• Applying to the wrong organization: When applying for physician credentialing, you must first research and identify the right physician credentialing organization that you need to apply to. Each organization has different guidelines.
• Submitting outdated or expired credentials: It is essential to keep all your credentials, such as licenses and certifications, up to date. Outdated or expired credentials will not only cause delays in the credentialing process but may also lead to a loss of privileges.
• Incomplete applications: A physician credentialing application must be complete in order to be processed. Any omission of important information may lead to delays in the credentialing process or even a denial of privileges.
• Lack of communication: It is important to maintain open communication with the physician credentialing organization or board throughout the physician credentialing process to avoid delays.
• Treating Patients before Credentialing: In some cases, physicians may start treating patients before the credentialing process is complete. This can lead to problems if there are any delays in the process or if the physician is denied their credentialing.
• Not completing re-credentialing or re-validation: Physicians need to make sure they complete the re-credentialing or re-validation process on time to avoid any lapses in their credentialing.
• Not completing a background check: One of the most important parts of physician credentialing is the background check. Physicians need to make sure they complete this step to avoid issues later on.

What are the common physician credentialing mistakes made by healthcare organizations?

• Not conducting primary source verification: Healthcare organization must contact various sources, such as schools, hospitals, and state medical boards, to verify a physician’s credentials. It is essential to conduct primary source verification in order to validate a physician is who they claim to be and that their credentials are up to date.
• Relying on paper credentialing: With robust technology, such as iPatientcare, healthcare organizations can now utilize online physician credentialing systems which not only save time but also improve accuracy.
• Not having a system in place: Having an efficient physician credentialing system in place is essential for any healthcare organization. Without a proper system, it can be difficult to keep track of physician credentials and inaccurate credentials or a lapse in credentialing can occur.
• Not performing regular audits: Regular physician credentialing audits help to ensure that the physician credentialing process is running smoothly and that there are no lapses in the system.

Physician credentialing is an important process that should not be taken lightly. By understanding the importance of credentialing and avoiding common mistakes, you can help ensure that your practice or your organization runs smoothly and in compliance with all credentialing rules.

iPatientCare is one of the leading EHR vendors in the market & offers comprehensive Healthcare Technology Solutions designed to meet the needs of practices of all sizes. Our subject experts are always available to answer all your queries about the physician credentialing process to help you not make any mistakes.

Contact our subject experts to learn more about medical provider credentialing.

Most healthcare settings involve multiple people working together daily, and this means that everyone needs to be aware of their role in the team and their contributions within the organization. For instance, if you’re an administrator at a hospital keeping track of patients’ appointments or medications then the most effective tool for you would be an Electronic Health Record (EHR) rather than keeping handwritten records that require extended time and effort.

To get the most out of your healthcare technology, it’s important for everyone involved in the patient care process to utilize it according to their role, and remain in constant communication with others on their team.

How can healthcare technology improve care coordination?

Better Communication Among Staff

Technology has the ability to increase communication efficiency in the healthcare environment. To coordinate care effectively, everyone in your team must be aware of their role and how they are going to contribute within the organization, particularly when dealing with sensitive information such as patient records. As an example, EHR’s can improve communication by establishing a single application for patient records that all team members can access.

Enhanced Patient Experience

Patient portals can improve the overall patient experience by providing easy access to patient health records and enabling communication with doctors or nurses via secure messaging systems or email notifications. This increases both patient satisfaction and quality of care. Patients can access their records anywhere and follow up on care instructions with their doctor without waiting for a physical chart to be mailed to them. Additionally, a single application for patients where they can schedule appointments or request prescription refills streamlines processes and reduces complications.

Healthcare technology can also provide patients with access to virtual care.This type of service allows patients to get the care they need without having to leave their homes as some may be unable to meet in person. Patients can remain in constant communication with their care teams.

Automation and Improved Workflow

Enhance care coordination by automating tasks that would traditionally require human intervention. For example, many practices use automated appointment reminder systems to call or text patients reminding them of upcoming appointments. This type of system helps reduce the number of no-shows and allows team members to focus on other tasks. Streamlining workflows leads to better time management and reduces errors. If your staff has defined workflow patterns, they can complete their tasks more efficiently. Staff members are alerted to their tasks, improving the care coordination of their patients.Staff members from different departments or areas of expertise can coordinate to solve health-related issues and make timely decisions.. This is especially critical when dealing with complex tasks that require input from multiple staff members.

Specialty Care

Robust healthcare technology helps connect patients with the right specialists. If a patient is experiencing symptoms that might be related to a rare condition, patients and their doctors have access to databases to find the proper specialist. Patients have real-time access to information regarding doctors and hospitals that specialize in their specific healthcare needs.

Implementing comprehensive technology enables you and your staff to work smarter, not harder. Healthcare technology can help improve care coordination by providing a single platform for patient records, automating tasks, and streamlining workflows. For more information about healthcare IT tools such as EHR, Practice Management System (PMS), and Revenue Cycle Management (RCM), and how they can improve your practice, contact us today and request a demo.

Telehealth as a ‘Lifeline’ in the Midst of Coronavirus Outbreak

The novel Coronavirus had the world on its edge. The outbreak of infections has sparked global anxiety and concern. Coronavirus has infected thousands of people worldwide; how can we curb enormous spread with the help of available technology? Telehealth plays an important role in the ongoing battle with coronavirus and its variants.

Patient Access: The Foundation of Revenue Cycle Enhancement Processes

Patient access plays a vital role in Revenue Cycle Management. The Patient Access team is responsible for ensuring that patients have a positive experience when they contact your organization, as well as obtaining the necessary information to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement. In this blog you can find more information on why patient access is the foundation of Revenue Cycle Enhancement Processes.

Technology is Helping us Improve our Health Everyday Everywhere

Healthcare technology has made it possible for people to connect, learn about their health, and make better decisions when it comes to their overall well-being. There are enormous examples where technology has made an immense difference in healthcare. Learn more.

Key Challenges Faced in Behavioral and Mental Healthcare

A growing number patients are struggling with mental illness;mental health and behavioral issues are far more common than most people realize. But these individuals face considerable patient access barriers hindering them from receiving proper mental health care. Here you can find more information on the key challenges faced in Behavioral and Mental Healthcare.

How Digital Health is Revolutionizing the Healthcare in India

Digitization has been a welcomed change for doctors and patients in India. The proliferation of the internet, penetration of the global market, and rising use of mobile devices are expected to fuel this trend further. Education and information around the use of digital health can bring the number of people under the umbrella of technology benefits. Here’s how you can make some sensible use of digital healthcare technology in India.

Top 5 Successful EHR Data Migration Steps to Follow

Migrating health data from current EHRs to more comprehensive EHRs is a complex process for which there are no clear guidelines, well-accepted studies, or consensual standards. Therefore, before initiating the migration process, it is recommended to go through a careful planning phase that will cover all the critical steps. Here are five successful EHR data migration tips to follow.

How Remote Patient Monitoring is Transforming Healthcare

Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) has experienced a trial run, but the past decade’s worth of research made this emerging technology move to the implementation phase in the year 2020. It is noteworthy that the adoption of RPM technology largely emerged due to the benefits it promises to the healthcare environment. Learn more about how RPM is transforming healthcare.

Challenges and Strategies Behind Patient Engagement

As healthcare increases in complexity, patient engagement has become widely recognized as a critical ingredient for a high-quality healthcare system. To achieve successful patient engagement at your healthcare practice, you need to take deliberate actions towards shifting your care model from fee-for-service (FFS) to value-based care (VBC). Learn more about how you can strategize your patient engagement.

How to Overcome Challenges in Telehealth?

Telehealth has become a bridge between patients and providers. Though many individuals may prefer to continue to receive traditional in-person care, telehealth and teleconsultation offer opportunities to increase patients’ choices and expand the scope of services.

Benefits of Outsourcing Revenue Cycle Management

In Revenue Cycle Management (RCM), is a process, not a product that will work according to prescribed commands. The benefits of outsourcing the RCM process can transform and improve your financial health. It will also afford your practice extra bandwidth to focus more on your business – offering quality healthcare.

If you are interested in learning more, we recommend reading our other Healthcare Blogs. iPatientCare experts are available to answer all your inquiries about our robust, customizable EHR system. With over 20 years of experience, iPatientCare is one of the leading EHR vendors in the market and offers a comprehensive EHR system that is designed to meet the needs of clinics of all sizes. Schedule a demo to see how we can help.