Bert,
In the first instance, did you have a computer set up in each room for the MA's to log the info?
We have two docs on, and 8 exam rooms - what we do now, is the MA rooms the pt., writes down the CC in the chart, takes the vitals and puts the chart up for the provider.
I am envisioning either a computer in each room, where they can log in the info, or a "COW" (cart on wheels) with a computer, an electronic BP cuff, and thermometer on it - perhaps two of those, one for each doc.
As far as the networking part of things - what does AC include with that? Do we have to set up our own network between all the computers? How hard is that to do?
First, how many MAs do you have?
I will answer your last question first. AC has nothing to do with networking and, in fact, this has always made support difficult, because probably > 50% of the issues are related to networking issues. Networking can be easy or hard A) depending on how good you are at it, and B) the complexity of the setup and whether it is Peer to Peer or Client/Server. I don't think it is all that difficult, but it is best done correctly, so I would contract it out if you don't feel comfortable.
As far as computers go, I am not a big believer in COWs. I also think that we are all making it much too difficult. This is my bias, but I am not a big laptop computer person especially when it means moving things around and carrying to and fro.
I would make it simple this way. I would put a desktop computer where they need to go. In other words:
Reception
Biller
Possible other clerical person
Rooms 1 through 8
An MA computer (possibly for triage or at least for messages -- my preference would be a computer for each MA so AC is up and running for each MA, thereby making it easier to send messages to the one you need to). If money is a constraint, then just one should suffice. If you have a triage area, then you are all set with that.
Anytime a doctor goes into a room, there is a computer there. If the MA rooms the patient in the exam room, he or she can log out and log in for the particular doctor.
The only issue you would have would be if a different doctor came into the room. In that case you would need to decide how to handle that. I suppose worst case scenario that other doctor would have to pull the chart and send it to him or herself.
Maybe someone can add a solution here. There are other workarounds such as using a dummy provider and signing off with your own name.
