Computer-aided documentation. Quality, productivity, coding, and enhanced reimbursement.

Abstract

PURPOSE: Physicians currently use technology, where appropriate, to improve patient care, for example, MRI and three-dimensional radiotherapy dose planning. One area that has seen limited benefit from current technology is in documenting of medical information. DESIGN: Review of related literature and directed interviews. RESULTS: Technology is available to assist in documenting the initial patient encounter. Patient care, quality of practice, and reimbursement may be improved with careful implementation. CONCLUSION: It will be worthwhile for practices to examine how to implement this technology to obtain the potential benefits.