Computer Assisted Physician Documentation Software
With the spreading trend of clinical documentation software becoming mandatory in healthcare facilities across the nation, some physicians are fighting back against the cause. As is the case with any transition, there are always a number of bumps along the way. We are in the midst of a culture clash between generations. And in a field as sensitive as medicine, resolving such a clash comes with its fair share of challenges. But when it’s all said and done, the fact of the matter is that technology is an asset that we cannot afford to take advantage of. And with enough effort, we can and should get everyone on the same page. But first, it’s important to recognize why this transition into physician documentation software is so difficult for some doctors.
Disrupting The Narrative
Including software into the equation of physician patient interactions can feel like an interference, especially at first. There’s a certain rhythm that physicians craft and develop over the many years of their careers. On top of that, they also tend to think about issues in a certain linear, narrative fashion. The doctor asks the patient a series of questions, the answers of which determine what the following questions will be. But when software determines a percentage of those questions automatically, it disrupts the interaction. This, in theory, can be at the expense of the quality of care.
Why To Overcome The Narrative
Firstly, while such a disruption is reasonable in that change is confusing, it’s not a worthy enough complaint to reverse the movement. This is simply a transition that takes some to grow accustomed to. But it’s thanks to changes like these that humans collectively can now live far healthier lives than those of past generations. In the spirit of moving forward, it’s worth the trouble to make the effort to learn and adapt.
Some Worry The Benefits Of Free Text Will Fade
Also, the routine is different writing something down versus typing something in. Doctors tend to organize things in such a way that makes sense to them. By requiring them to use a device that organizes information in such a way that’s different than what they’re used to can cause them to perform their jobs poorly. Because it is outside of their comfort zone. Additionally, free text allows doctors to take note of aspects of the patient that do not fit a category. For example, if a physician determines that a patient is more frail than he or she appears, this is something that requires a side note. These are the kinds of human aspects that may move become less accounted for with the onset of new technological norms.
How Physician Documentation Software Addresses The Human Aspect
Side notes such as the one described above will not fade to the back of the line. On the contrary, that which does not fit a category will be considered extra pertinent information. The greatest challenge is convincing physicians to adopt a new system. That entails convincing them that this system is better than the one that they are used to. But the evidence is there. And with the proper training and education, we can work towards a more succinct future.
Hiteks Solutions offers quality Computer Assisted Physician Documentation (CAPD) software. We operate out of New York City but deliver to clients all throughout the country. For more information on our various packages, give us a call at 212-920-0929.