While new technologies or procedures in the workplace can be intimidating, switching from paper records to electronic health records is essential in today’s behavioral health market. Many clinicians resist change, even if it promises to make the day-to-day feel easier. Many people think, “If it’s not broke, don’t fix it,” when asked to update their charting procedures. But if time is wasted deciphering handwriting or figuring out which antiquated symbol to click to view the most recent treatment plan, an EMR will definitely simplify the process and increase efficiency.
With the right software system — one that is intuitive and handles tasks seamlessly —productivity improves, and clinicians discover they have more time to do what matters most — caring for those they serve.
In the behavioral health space, there are a few competing software programs. It is essential to ensure that the time and effort spent adopting a new system are worthwhile. When looking for the EMR that best fits your addiction recovery facility, pay attention to how the system will help you achieve your clinic’s goals and to the support in place to ensure implementation.
What is EMR software?
EMR is Electronic Medical Records, sometimes referred to as EHR or Electronic Health Records. Choosing an EMR is a significant decision, and there are many factors to consider: cost, functionality, training, support, and compliance. The short-term time commitment required to learn a new system is significantly outweighed by the benefits counselors gain from being able to document and track their clients’ history more easily and efficiently.
Choose a system that helps track patient progress and challenges and seamlessly updates other team members on patient engagement. Consider the following criteria to determine if the addiction treatment EMR software is right for your facility:
Is it customizable?
It is essential to use software that is designed specifically for your industry. Behavioral health treatment centers need an EMR that is secure, makes documentation easy and helps with reporting and compliance. With a task-based system, the clinician is less likely to skip an essential step in the record-keeping process.
Is it collaborative?
Adopting a new EMR is generally done to streamline existing processes. Letting staff know that this is intended to be less work and save time is imperative. Giving the people who work with the system the most say over what they need from an EMR can also make this feel like a collective decision. When a system is secure and cloud-based, information can be shared easily. Telehealth features should facilitate communication and be required.
Is it easy to use?
Upgrading to a user-friendly EMR can take some of the paperwork burdens off of therapists. Clinicians who spend exorbitant time documenting or fighting with outdated systems are more likely to feel stressed at work. The longer this continues, the more likely it is that clinicians will burn out. Here are some ways an EMR can alleviate this struggle and help therapists do more of what they love.
- Spend Less Time Charting – Being able to type notes quickly and have a system that flows smoothly saves time. A thoughtful setup simplifies processes.
- Find Information Easily – When you need to dig around an old system or binder, it can take forever to find a specific record. With a system built to logically organize client information, counselors spend more time reading the actual data rather than clicking around.
- Keep Track of Progress– Do screening assessments electronically and see how scores change over time. It makes treatment planning, progress assessment, and goal-setting much easier to understand.
EMR Made for Therapists by Therapists
As a clinician, your needs are a priority. When time is wasted on incompatible EMRs, paper charts, or separate Excel sheets to track client information, there is a risk of burnout, the quality of treatment suffers, and a clinic’s ability to meet its goals is compromised.
When an EMR is explicitly designed for therapists, not just an afterthought or add-on, our needs are truly addressed. An EMR platform that offers everything in one place makes the most sense.
Alleva’s mission is to bring technology to therapists that actually improves their quality of work and takes the stress out of the work. Alleva works to make a system that is intuitive to your personal needs. If you are interested in a hassle-free demo or to learn more, reach out today.