Healthcare information technology is the practice of collecting, storing and using healthcare data to improve patient care. It also includes electronic health records (EHRs), diagnostic imaging, wearable devices, and more.

HIT is important in healthcare because it allows providers to:

• Access patient data quickly and easily
• Make better-informed decisions
• Improve communication between providers and patients
• Increase efficiency and productivity
• Reduce healthcare costs

Here’s what Healthcare IT includes:

• EHRs (Electronic Health Records)
• PHRs (Personal Health Records)
• HIEs (Health Information Exchanges)
• mCodes (Machine-readable codes for data analytics)
• Clinical Decision Support Systems
• Telehealth

1. Electronic Health Records EHRs are a digital version of a patient’s medical history that is maintained by the provider. EHRs give providers quick and easy access to vital patient information which reduces the chances of errors, omissions, and duplication of tests. EHRs also provide patients with online access to their own medical records, test results, and visit summaries.
2. Personal Health Records PHRs are patient-centered records that give patients more control over their health data. PHRs can also be used to track immunizations, medications, allergies, lab results, and other important health information.
3. Health Information Exchanges HIEs are secure networks that allow for the electronic sharing of health information between providers, insurers, and patients.  In addition, HIEs make it possible for providers to have quick and easy access to a patient’s complete medical history which helps to improve the coordination of care.
4. mCodes mCodes are machine-readable codes that can be used for data analytics in healthcare. They also help to make sense of the vast amount of data that is generated by electronic health records.
5. Clinical Decision Support Systems CDSSs are computerized systems that provide guidance to providers on the best course of action for a particular patient. Plus, they help to improve the quality of care by providing evidence-based recommendations.
6. Telehealth Telehealth is the use of technology to deliver healthcare services remotely. Telehealth can be used for things like patient monitoring, diagnosis and treatment of illnesses, and follow-up care. It can also help to improve access to care for patients in rural areas and reduce the need for travel.

Automation

When it comes to technology and healthcare, automation can be key in reducing costs while also freeing up physicians’ time to provide direct care to patients. by automating repetitive tasks, such as data entry for electronic health records, processes can be improved and doctors can focus on patient care. This can help to reduce physician burnout and improve overall patient care.

Today, there are many software programs that can help doctors automate or delegate their administrative tasks. For instance,  there are medical scribe services that can be used to help with data entry for EHRs. 

There are also a number of task management software programs available that can help doctors keep track of their patients, appointments, and tasks. On the other hand, there are some apps that let you scan and import test results into your EMR, rather than having to fill out forms or enter results manually.

Moreover, modern mobile applications are designed to streamline and simplify the medical billing process for both patients and providers. For instance, the Dr. Bill app allows users to submit claims quickly and easily, without having to worry about the details of each procedure. This not only saves time but also reduces the chances of errors and potential delays in reimbursement. Ultimately, this can help reduce healthcare costs for both patients and providers.

Supply Chain Optimization

The cost of drugs and medical supplies has been on the rise for years and is only expected to continue doing so. The increase in costs is often linked to shortages in supply which can be attributed to a number of reasons such as – manufacturing issues, FDA approval process, etc.

However, there are various ways in which technology can help optimize the supply chain and reduce drug costs. For example, blockchain technology can be used to track drugs from production to consumption. This would help identify any counterfeit drugs and also ensure that patients receive the correct medication.

Inventory management systems can also be used to keep track of medical supplies and schedule deliveries based on real-time needs. This would help avoid stock-outs and overstocking, both of which can lead to significant financial losses.

Hospitals can also partner with startups that focus on reducing the cost of drugs and medical supplies. For example, Rx savings Solutions helps hospitals save on the cost of drugs by negotiating prices with manufacturers and pharmacies.

Billing and Coding

80 Percent Of Medical Bills Have Errors, On Average.

Coding and billing errors are one of the main reasons for increased healthcare costs.   

Pat Palmer, CEO, and founder of Medical Billing Advocates of America claims that three out of four medical bills they examine have mistakes.

One way to reduce these errors is by using computer-assisted coding (CAC) tools. These tools use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to read through medical notes and convert them into the correct codes. This not only reduces the chances of human error but also speeds up the process significantly.

Another way to reduce billing and coding errors is by using electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs help standardize patient data and make it easier to track any errors. They also make it easier to submit insurance claims as all the necessary information is stored in one place.

Scheduling

Scheduling errors are another major contributor to increased healthcare costs. In fact, a study by the American College of Emergency Physicians found that scheduling errors cost the US healthcare system $150 billion every year.

There are various ways in which technology can help reduce scheduling errors. For example, automated appointment reminders can help reduce the number of no-shows. Online scheduling tools can also help patients schedule appointments without having to call the office.

In addition, electronic health records (EHRs) can be used to better manage patient schedules. EHRs allow you to see which doctors are available and when making it easier to schedule appointments. They also make it easier to keep track of cancellations and reschedule appointments accordingly.

Claims processing

Claims processing is another area where technology and healthcare intersect. Claim processing means the action or process of making a formal request for something, especially money, from an organization.

One way to reduce claims processing costs is by using electronic health records (EHRs). EHRs can help streamline the claims process by storing all of the necessary information in one place. This makes it easier to submit insurance claims and get them.

Another way to automate claims processing is by using medical billing software. This type of software can be used to generate and submit insurance claims electronically. In addition, it can also be used to track payments and denials.

Medical billing software can also be used to create patient statements. This would allow patients to see their balance and make payments online.

There is no doubt that technology can play a significant role in reducing healthcare costs. However, it is also important to note that technology is only part of the solution. In order to truly reduce healthcare costs, there needs to be a concerted effort by both healthcare providers and patients.

Healthcare providers need to be willing to adopt new technologies and use them to improve the quality of care. Patients also need to be willing to take advantage of new technologies and use them to manage their health.

When both healthcare providers and patients are willing to embrace change, the result is a healthcare system that is more efficient and less costly.

How can Kiimkern help?

As a technology solutions provider, Kiimkern is committed to helping healthcare providers reduce costs and improve the quality of care. We offer a variety of products and services that can help you streamline the claims process, reduce billing and coding errors, and better manage patient schedules.

We understand that the healthcare landscape is constantly changing and that you need to be able to adapt in order to stay ahead of the curve. That’s why we offer flexible solutions that can be customized to meet your specific needs.