None of the changes I'm proposing would necessairly affect existing users, only improve the product for new ones:
1. Default *saving* unsigned encounter contents instead of erasing them when the chart is closed. - (perhaps this could even be an administrative option, for those who still prefer the automatic erasure option)
2. Elective signing/locking the chart by the provider (perhaps by clicking on an icon) producing a small dated time-stamp on the page. This could be an option (under administrative opions). And indeed, becomes less critical if closing the encounter doesnt risk erasing the contenets without signature,
3. Allowing other providers/office staff, with the appropriste AC security clearance to open a chart without it having to be forwarded. Again, if the office providers don't want a specific empoloyee to have access to the chart, they wouldn't be given that level of clearance.
4. Saving correspondence in Word-compatible form. This only helps those of us in medical specialties who use write letters and wish to edit them in a convenient form - it doesn'treally materially affect others.
My goal here is to suggest changes that optimize the program and expand its use to newer and potential new users, while not making it more difficult for existing users.
Bruce Morgenstern, MD (Neurology)
Denver, CO
