That ever-present computer is the locus of a complete electronic medical records (EMR) and practice management system, according to Dr. Tanchanko, who is in solo practice in Middletown, Del.
Tablet PCs are more portable than laptops and can even be used while standing. Each morning, Dr. Tanchanko starts the EMR program and opens his Internet browser. Wireless access provides immediate access to patient records and other information.
“I have a folder for my most commonly used patient education materials, and there's another folder for vaccine information sheets, and another for screening forms for various conditions. We're virtually paperless. Charts, lab data, patient records … everything is right there at my fingertips,” he said in an interview. The EMR system also greatly reduces faxing and subscription fees for printed materials.
Dr. Tanchanko prints documents and patient education materials directly off the Web, from sources such as the American Academy of Family Physicians (www.familydoctor.orgwww.medscape.com
All printed materials, including controlled prescriptions, are ready by the end of the patient's visit, Dr. Tanchanko said.
Why carry a tablet PC instead of installing computer stations in exam rooms? “The tablet PC allows better face-to-face contact with the patient, it's portable, and I don't have the expense of buying and installing desktop computers,” he explained. “This system significantly reduces clutter, keeps materials up to date, boosts efficiency, and, best of all, the information is almost free. It has enhanced the visit experience for both myself and for patients.”
Dr. Tanchanko is author of “An EMR Journey,” an eBook now available at www.anemrjourney.com