A radiology information system (RIS) will improve your practice in many ways and maximize your production while minimizing administration time. RIS software complements hospital information systems (HIS) and is essential for streamlining workflow.
Patient Management
The implementation of RIS streamlines the process of gathering vital patient information and scheduling tasks. Information entered into the system is replicated across the patient's data stream rather than requiring multiple entries of the same information, drastically reducing administration time and improving accuracy.
Utilizing the tools and tracking features within your RIS software you can track and reduce patient wait times and report turnaround times, resulting in higher production. Preparation instructions and marketing strategies can be employed using the patient database via fax, email, or direct mail.
Streamline Billing and Validation
RIS can streamline billing and validation due to increased data accuracy and efficiency, and the ability to pre-authorize insurance qualifications before the exam is even performed reduces payment issues. Timely claims submission, with the ability to track co-payments and private payments further increases collectability on all accounts.
Proactive Workflow Monitoring
Built-in metrics allow analysis of workflow measures to ensure maximum productivity, including but not limited to time slots are properly filled; wait times are not excessive and report turnaround is efficient.
Key metrics allow you to find problems before they impact your practice and allow you to improve services and revenue capture.
Paperless Reporting System
The environmental impact notwithstanding, a paperless workflow drastically reduces costs associated with copying, filing, and storing paper files. Patient files are stored electronically creating detailed documentation at each stage of the diagnostic process. Communication between the front office and radiological staff is simplified and expedited.
Electronic documentation also allows for cloud-based information storage and transfer leveraging wireless communication device use for radiologists when not in-office. Real-time alerts can be created and customized according to the radiologist's preferences to enhance productivity.
Equipment Utilization Optimization
This is perhaps the most significant area of improvement with the implementation of RIS software. Advanced scheduling utilizing modalities, locations, and procedure times allows for maximized use of radiological equipment creating the highest return on investment for the equipment. Customization features enable manual adjustments, yet automation decreases human error and wasted time slots due to inefficient scheduling practices.
Centralization features enable multiple offices to coordinate appointments more efficiently with Web access and lead to decreased chances of double-booking patient time slots.
Summation
RIS software can greatly increase productivity for your radiological practice while minimizing administration time. More time can be spent on patient diagnostics, maximizing revenues.
Key Takeaways:
- More accurate and detailed patient information records reduce human error and maximize marketing capabilities.
- Increased accuracy and efficiency streamline billing processes and minimize lost revenues on insurance claims.
- Key metrics allow careful monitoring to prevent problems before they impact your practice negatively.
- Paperless reporting decreases expenses for paper copying, filing, printing, and filing.
- Maximum return on investment is realized for radiological equipment.
For more information about radiology information systems, click here to download our free e-book, “5 Vital Things You Need to Know About RIS Software.”
