EMR systems are not one-size-fits all. Modernizing Medicine has created a number of specialty-specific EMR platforms, including EMA GastroenterologyTM. Julie Servoss, MD, Medical Director of GI for Modernizing Medicine, explains why a system designed specifically for the field of GI can allow physicians to maximize the benefits of an EMR system. Question: Why is it important for gastroenterologists to select a GI-specific EMR system?
Julie C. Servoss, MD, MPH: I think specificity is important because of our interactions with patients. We want to maintain the patient-physician relationship and in order to do so we can't be limited by dictation and typing.
With this amount of specific data, you have so much efficiency. You are able to enhance patient care at the time of the visit and practice evidence-based medicine. On the other end, you can pursue interests in clinical research and outcomes data. This tool is not just for CMS and PQRS purposes. It can really be a part of advancing gastroenterology and its subspecialties.
Q: How did you first begin to work on EMA Gastroenterology? JS: I have been the Medical Director of Gastroenterology at Modernizing Medicine for four months. EMA Gastroenterology has been in development with Elliot Ellis, MD, for about a year. The product is unique because the physicians are the developers of this specialty-based product. I have learned how to code in XML and Java Script, and Dr. Ellis and I are coding and building specific GI content. The EMR system includes features for ordering lab work, tests meaningful use and ICD-10 – all tailored for the GI community.
Q: How does a GI-specific EMR system help gastroenterologists cope with the challenges of the current healthcare environment?
JS: With decreasing reimbursement, we need EMR systems to facilitate patient care and not slow us down. EMA Gastroenterology is completely mobile and includes a native iPad application. With the pocket application, called PocketEMATM, I can access my patient notes, medication lists and my latest impressions on my phone. PQRS and MU reports are also automated.
EMA Gastroenterology also has more than 50,000 anatomical images we can reference. I am a hepatologist and Dr. Ellis is an interventional gastroenterologist. We each see very specific diseases in our practice and these are accommodated by the EMR system. It is a powerful tool, great for physicians and patients.
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