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10 Ways EDC Streamlines Your Patient Data
March 17, 2018
From doctors' offices to hospitals to in-home care, healthcare providers are realizing the many advantages of electronic data capture (EDC). EDC uses tablet computers instead of paper forms to capture patient data, resulting in improved efficiency, data security, portability, and accuracy. Here's a closer look at how EDC benefits your healthcare organization.
Improve accuracy: EDC catches patient errors and incomplete forms to ensure data is complete and accurate. There's no need to re-enter data from paper forms, which means less chance of human error. Staff always has access to up-to-date information in real-time, which enhances patient safety.
Boost staff productivity: Less time spent generating forms, selecting appropriate form packets for patients, and filing forms means staff has more time to spend with patients. Mobile thin client solutions use familiar Windows-based tools and programs to minimize the staff's learning curve. [1]
Enhance data security: Fewer paper records means less chance that sensitive data will be breached. Lost or stolen devices present a security risk, but with thin client EDC, no patient data is stored on staff devices. Some EDC solutions offer built-in security features tailored for the regulatory requirements of the healthcare environment, such as secure USB, built-in firewall, and smartcard authentication.
Streamline access: Overly complex login processes and multiple passwords take up valuable time and frustrate users, leading the staff to resort to risky “workarounds” such as sharing passwords or staying logged in when they should log out. This risk is managed by thin client EDC solutions that enable simple but secure access methods like single sign-on and user authentication via contactless smartcard.
Stay flexible: For those times when mobile hardware isn't ideal for workflow needs, certain thin client EDC solutions offer secure roaming. That way, staff can start a session on one device, such as a tablet, and pick up where they left off on another, such as a desktop PC or thin client laptop. Secure remote access is especially effective for use by in-home care providers or emergency responders.
Cut costs: EDC reduces paper-related costs such as ink, paper, and printer maintenance, document storage space, and secure document shredding services. Using thin client mobile solutions also cuts the IT costs associated with installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting software. Because information is stored in the cloud, the cost of hard disk storage space is reduced.
Eliminate lost consent forms: If a healthcare organization can't find a signed patient consent form, they could face legal liability. EDC highlights signature fields on forms so you can be confident all required consent is obtained, complete with time and date stamps. Secure, real-time storage of the data ensures forms don't get lost and can be accessed quickly when needed.
Streamline billing: Since EDC generates the appropriate forms for each patient and ensures they are complete and accurate, your organization can bill for healthcare services right away. There's no need to contact patients multiple times to get missing information or correct errors. The staff saves time, claims are paid faster, revenues are accelerated, and everyone is happy.
Improve patient care and satisfaction: Of course, patient care is the real bottom line for healthcare organizations. EDC makes gathering information easier for patients, too. Knowing your data is accurate and kept secure, you'll have greater confidence both in the quality of care you're provided and the privacy of your personal information. Staff members have more time to spend with patients, further boosting patient satisfaction. It's a win-win situation for all.
By implementing EDC, healthcare providers can streamline operations, boost productivity, secure sensitive data, and improve patient satisfaction. Learn more about how the right EDC thin client solution can help your healthcare organization improve patient care.
[1] Not all features are available in all editions or versions of Windows. Systems may require upgraded and/or separately purchased hardware, drivers, software or BIOS update to take full advantage of Windows functionality. Windows 10 is automatically updated, which is always enabled. ISP fees may apply and additional requirements may apply over time for updates. See http://www.microsoft.com
Windows is either a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
