It is difficult combining being a mom with any job. This job is more difficult because of the extra time demands of being on-call 24/7. Using AC for the past year has not only made my staff happy, it has made my family happy. My husband thanks me for not bringing charts home.
I think the key was that I forced the entire office to use the electronic way exclusively. This forced us all to develop better computer skills. I was taught to type in grade school and to not look at the keyboard. I refreshed this old skill and can look at the pt while typing. Now, the pt does not feel separated by the computer. Now their exact words can be typed in as they speak and I do not have to recreate this encounter hours after it is over. You must force yourself to develop new habits for this to work.
If I cannot review all of my imports at work, I sit with my family during tv time and work on my sign-offs. The family feels my presence and I get my scut work done. My VPN connection is invaluable. It enables me to start the next day with a clear in-box.
The patients are very positive about the EMR. They receive the benefits of eprescribing, patient portal, better access to our office and ease of communication. UPDOX is a must for this to occur!
If your wife would like to speak with me about any of the above, please notify me. BTW (by the way)- when was her last vacation? That might be the start of putting her on course again.
