
The Basic Paperless Office (BPO)
Any office that has a single front desk computer to generate claims,
schedule appointments and perform basic practice management functions
could be considered "on its way" to paperless. However, if you are
only using the computer for those tasks, you are missing out. BPOs use
computers at the front desk for claims and appointments and in the
operatories to create treatment plans, clinical notes and take perio
measurements. Front- and back-office computers are often networked
to provide seamless workflow.
The Intermediate Paperless Office (IPO)
The intermediate paperless office not only uses computers in its
operatories, but has introduced additional time-saving paperless tools
into its workflow. These tools include major items like digital radiography
and digital documents, as well as minor software tools like integrated
credit card processing and employee time tracking.
Digital radiography is perhaps the easiest way to illustrate the
impact of "paperless technology" on an office. Not only are you saving
time by not waiting for film to develop, but you also have a better opportunity
to get clear pictures and there are no chemical developing solutions
or casting paper.
An IPO will usually adopt some type of digital document software.
This kind of software allows you to organize, capture and store patient
insurance cards, driver's licenses, financial forms, privacy and patient
release forms and printed documents. Things like patient release forms
can be captured electronically and signed electronically.
The Advanced Paperless Office (APO)
For most start-up dentists, starting an advanced paperless office
from the beginning is often the most appealing route. However, for those
who already have established offices, sometimes the change to the APO
is hard (but not impossible) to implement.
These offices have all of the above technologies (BPO and IPO) and
also include technologies like patient messaging software, Internet patient
enrollment, and interoffice communication software. They utilize e-mail
and text messaging for patient reminders and to confirm appointments.
Patients are able to complete much of their "paperwork" on the
practice's Web site before coming in for their appointment. The Web site
is linked to the practice management software, funneling the information
patient's fill out directly into the office computer system.
Some filled-to-capacity offices have interoffice communication software
so hygienists, assistants and dentists are always in communications
with each other. |