Optimize Your Orthopedic Practice with Cloud-Based EMR

The Complete Guide to Leveraging the Cloud for Better Patient Care

In today's digital world, orthopedic practices need electronic solutions that can keep up with the pace of innovation. Cloud-based EMR (electronic medical record) systems provide the accessibility, flexibility and integration required for top-quality patient care. 

Here we outline everything orthopedic groups need to know about transitioning to the cloud.

What is a Cloud-Based Orthopedic EMR Software?

A cloud-based orthopedic EMR is an electronic health record system hosted remotely on secure servers and accessed via the internet. This eliminates the need for on-premise servers and IT infrastructure. 

Key Feature	Advantage
Access patient charts on any internet-connected device like smartphones, tablets and laptops for convenience.	Allows access to patient data from anywhere.
Software updates, upgrades and maintenance are handled seamlessly in the background by the vendor without disrupting practice workflows.	No downtime or disruptions for software maintenance.
No need to purchase, maintain and secure expensive servers and hardware on-site.	Avoids large upfront hardware costs.
Subscription-based pricing model rather than large upfront costs makes budgeting predictable.	Predictable monthly/annual costs.
Automatic near real-time data backup offsite for maximum uptime and redundancy in case of emergencies.	Data is securely backed up offsite.

Benefits of Cloud-Based EMR for Orthopedics

Orthopedic practices gain many workflow and efficiency advantages by implementing a cloud-based EMR solution:

• Improved productivity and streamlined workflows with prescription management, templated notes and other time-saving features.
• Convenient access to patient records from anywhere enables coordinating care and making timely decisions.
• Easy scaling across multiple practice locations since everyone connects to the same system.
• Real-time benchmarking and reporting provides data-driven insights.
• Integrated patient portal and messaging for engagement beyond the office.
• Automatic software updates without disrupting the office or relying on IT staff.

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Choosing the Right Cloud-Based EMR

Selecting the ideal cloud-based electronic medical record (EMR) system is crucial for orthopedic practices and surgery centers. 

The EMR must fit seamlessly into orthopedic workflows and provide quick access to comprehensive patient information. When evaluating EMR solutions, orthopedic groups should look for these key features:

Specialized solution designed for orthopedics

The system should be purpose-built for orthopedic workflows, not just a general EMR adapted for orthopedics. It should support documentation for initial trauma cases, surgery planning, post-op rehabilitation, and all facets of musculoskeletal care.

Tight integration with imaging systems

Easy access to X-rays, MRI scans, arthroscopy and other images is vital for orthopedic care. The EMR should integrate seamlessly with picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) to view images without toggling between systems.

Digital tools for orthopedic surgery

A robust EMR provides implant logs, biologics databases, and digital surgical planning features. This allows tracking implants and materials used in surgery and streamlines surgery preparation.

Support for subspecialties

Orthopedics covers a wide range of subspecialties like sports medicine, spine surgery, hand and upper extremity, pediatrics, oncology and more. The EMR should accommodate documentation needs for all orthopedic subspecialties.

Intuitive interface and usability

The system should be designed specifically around orthopedic surgeon workflows to minimize clicks and toggling between screens. Voice recognition and other usability features can optimize orthopedic documentation.

Access from mobile devices

Remote access to patient charts and images from smartphones or tablets enables surgeons to review information and make decisions on the go. This allows coordinating care from any location.

Leading orthopedic EMR systems like Calysta provide a purpose-built solution scaled for orthopedics combined with accessibility, interoperability, and usability. Selecting the right platform lays a strong foundation for improving orthopedic care.

How to Implement a Cloud EMR Solution

Switching to a cloud-based electronic medical records (EMR) system can provide significant benefits for orthopedic practices, including improved efficiency, accessibility and costs. Follow these best practices for a successful implementation:

1. Carefully evaluate potential solutions and select an EMR designed specifically for orthopedics. Key features to look for include customized documentation templates, digital x-ray integration, scheduling tools optimized for surgery and integrated billing/coding.
2. Consider a software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform for faster deployment compared to on-premise systems. Cloud solutions remove the need to maintain servers while providing automatic updates.
3. Ensure the platform offers robust security protections for patient data including encryption, role-based access and advanced authentication. Review the vendor's HIPAA compliance and cybersecurity measures.
4. Select a solution that includes patient portals, reporting dashboards and mobility features to extend capabilities beyond the clinic. This provides better care coordination and patient engagement.
5. Develop a comprehensive training plan and timeline for your staff. Allow plenty of time for learning workflows and practicing with the system before going live.
6. Work closely with the vendor's implementation team on data migration, testing, go-live support and continuing education. Look for providers experienced specifically with orthopedic deployments.
7. Thoroughly evaluate costs, read independent reviews, assess the vendor's resources and support offerings, and understand contract terms. This helps ensure a good long-term fit.
8. Use the flexibility of the cloud to allow providers instant EMR access from anywhere via secure mobile apps or web interfaces. This facilitates charting, ordering and communications.

With proper planning and vendor partnership, a cloud-based EMR can transform orthopedic practices by improving productivity and quality of care while preparing for emerging value-based reimbursement models.

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Securing Data in the Cloud

Orthopedic practices can keep protected health information highly secure with a cloud-based EMR solution through:

• Using HIPAA and HITRUST certified cloud hosting solutions with enterprise-grade physical and network security protocols.
• Implementing cloud security tools from vendors to protect endpoints like mobile devices.
• Establishing stringent data governance protocols around internet-connected smart medical devices and wearables.
• Creating business associate agreements with cloud vendors to ensure compliance with healthcare data regulations.
• Leveraging redundancies of large-scale cloud platforms to prevent data loss in case of outages.
• Choosing cloud storage solutions that incorporate security best practices.

Top orthopedic EMR systems utilize the latest encryption, access controls and security protocols to safeguard patient data in the cloud.

Calysta EMR: Built for Orthopedics

Calysta EMR understands the unique documentation, workflow and integration needs of orthopedic practices. Developed by an experienced surgeon Dr. Hardik Soni, it incorporates proven features designed specifically for orthopedics. Benefits include:

• Specialized tools for orthopedic clinical documentation, scheduling, billing and analytics.
• Seamlessly integrated PACS imaging and interoperability with other systems.
• Accessible from iOS, Android, laptops or desktops with automatic updates.
• Dedicated 24/7 customer support and on-site training options.
• Budget-friendly subscription-based pricing for predictable costs.

To learn more about how Calysta EMR can benefit your orthopedic practice, request a demo today. Our team is ready to answer your questions and show you how the power of the cloud can work for your organization.