Sure, it's better to run a corporate level computer system with IT support. The problem is that most solo practitioners don't have that kind of money.
I have to (as usual) agree with Wendell. The future reimbursement possibilities for all of us small practice docs is looking bleak. We have to be frugal where we can, and having experienced both the IT-supported (Medical Manager) and self-supported (AC) EMR/PM scenarios, I can control expenses with AC better. And having gone through a few "near-death" experiences with office hardware and software (including a hurricane), I have a good feeling that my backup methods are sufficient.
As to providing my staff with different computing environments via a server domain, it would take too much effort on my part. And they aren't interested -- I see that "deer-in-the-headlights" look whenever I usurp one of the staff meetings to roll out a new feature. Most common response when I finish up and ask for questions: are they still going to be able to get home early enough to pickup up the kids from practice.
The future? -- it's interesting to read some
blog posts from EMR users who have given up on both local IT and self-management. This could be the next big EHR trend. Is AC ready?
