Interoperability is essential for seamless data sharing and improved patient care. In a 2021 report by CHIME & KLAS on interoperability trends, the study revealed that deep interoperability has doubled among healthcare providers since 2017. However, achieving interoperability is a challenging task. If you want to implement successful integration projects, you need a reliable EHR connection company. So, to help you choose the best consultant for your project, here are six questions to ask.
1. Will the Interface Features Solve Our Pain Points?
Your practice already has several issues that interoperability can solve. You may need a solution that reduces the data processing burden on your physicians. Or maybe you need interfaces that can link your EHR with lab information systems to order for tests and receive results electronically.
So, list out the major problems you want to solve. Then ask your potential EHR interoperability service provider how they will solve them.
If you need to compare different vendor offerings, create a list of functions you want your interoperability interfaces to have. Then separate them into two groups. Essential tasks that are critical for patient care and efficient operations and those that are desirable but non-essential.
2. How Many Systems Can You Connect to Our EHR?
Today, your practice needs the flexibility provided by a seamless integration of your EHR with other systems. So, take an inventory of all the in-house systems you have, including legacy systems and those you use actively.
Beware that some point-to-point interfaces can only connect to other clinical departments like lab and radiology centers. But others offer an EMR interface engine that is robust and can link your EHR to billing applications, appointment scheduling, patient portals, e-prescribing, and many more.
3. Is Your Service Affordable?
Before you consult an EHR interface specialist, you need to do a budget. Then understand the total cost of developing and maintaining interfaces.
Factor in the cost of training, implementation, maintenance, and upgrades. Find out all you can learn about subscriptions and service fees for your interface. Ask if you will have to pay a license fee or if you’ll own the final product after the interface has been developed.
Remember that if you need to build many interfaces, you will save a lot of money by choosing an interface engine rather than building individual interfaces from scratch.
4. Is Your Connection Interface Scalable?
Do you have plans to grow and expand your practices soon? If you do, discuss your growth plans with your interface developer.
Ask if the solution offered is scalable without incurring unnecessarily high costs. Preferably, choose a cloud-based solution that already has built-in scalability and flexibility.
5. How Do You Provide Updates?
Virtually all health IT products will need upgrades within a year or two. That’s because regulations and requirements keep changing. Federal and state rules are constantly being modified.
Also, the realities of a post-COVID-19 era with most patients opting for telehealth will require upgrades to your health IT infrastructure. So ensure that your vendor provides updates and promotions promptly and at an affordable rate.
6. What Type of Support Do You Provide?
In addition to updates, your vendor needs to provide constant support for your solution. Health IT is a mission-critical technology that affects the life of patients. A glitch or bug can prevent your physicians from providing care to your patients. Ensure that your vendor offers 24/7 support with knowledgeable personnel who can help you solve problems quickly.
Get in Touch With a Reliable EHR Connection Company Today
For a demo of a robust and reliable EHR connectivity solution, contact Lifepoint Informatics at 877.522.8378. You can also reach us through our contact page today and book a free consultation.