How Paperless is Your Office? David J. Arnett



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.
Author's Bio

David J. Arnett received his business degree from Brigham Young University and his MBA from University of Phoenix. He has owned and operated several dental offices and is the co-founder of DentiMax. He can be reached at david@dentimax.com.
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