A CPOE or computerized provider order entry system allows physicians to replace manual paper orders with electronic orders. Initially, CPOE systems operated as standalone modules. But today, many vendors develop CPOE for EHR/EMR systems. Using CPOE has been a mandatory requirement for Meaningful Use of EHRs. And its adoption has been on the rise. If you have not implemented a computerized order entry system in your practice, here are some benefits that should motivate you to do so.
1. Minimize Data Entry Errors
When it is properly deployed, CPOE will help your practice reduce errors. A study published in JAMIA showed that CPOE has the potential to cut down errors by 48 percent. A CPOE uses an interface similar to the paper forms many doctors use for manual orders.
However, most text boxes have a drop-down selection list instead of typing out all the required details. When the CPOE is linked directly to the EHR, demographic and medical details are populated directly from the EHR.
2. Reduce Adverse Drug Reactions
Preventable medical mistakes cause hundreds of thousands in the U.S. annually. Many of these errors are linked to prescriptions.
Apart from errors caused by wrong interpretation of illegible handwriting, many errors are caused by adverse drug events. These are negative drug reactions that can lead to:
- An extended stay in the hospital
- High medical costs
- Permanent disability
- Untimely death
A well-designed CPOE system with decision support can alert the doctor to potential adverse drug reactions. And this can lead to significant improvement in patient safety.
3. Boost Provider Productivity
Manual paper-based orders are burdensome and time-consuming. This is why many paper-based orders are filled with poor handwriting.
Working with a CPOE can reduce the mental strain on doctors. The software reduces the data entry burden by pulling data from the EHR/EMR.
CPOE systems also have decision support that helps doctors assess a particular prescription’s potential effect. If an adverse drug event can occur, the doctor receives a notification.
4. Reduce Denied Claims
Many prescription orders and medical services need to be approved to avoid denied claims. Customized CPOE systems allow physicians to check eligibility claims with insurance companies before they make such orders.
CPOE can be integrated with the practice management system to flag lab or radiology test orders that need pre-approval, thereby reducing the number of denied claims.
5. Faster Turnaround Times
When CPOE is well implemented, it can drastically reduce the time needed to make orders. Ultimately, this will cut out delays.
Since orders are transmitted electronically with minimal errors, patients can receive prescriptions or lab test results in a shorter time. The results are also available through patient portals to improve patient participation and satisfaction in some practices.
Using CPOE for order entry and transmission offers your practice benefits from improved accuracy to higher productivity. However, implementing CPOE is not a stroll in the park. You need the skilled assistance of an EHR/CPOE interface expert to evaluate your workflow process and create interfaces that will optimize your investment in CPOE.
Work With a Specialist to Develop Your Computerized Order Entry System
Contact Lifepoint Informatics today at 877.522.8378 to discuss your CPOE implementation needs. Visit our contact page now to schedule a free consultation.