E-prescribing: Adapt to patient preference

A. As healthcare is becoming more digitized and consumer orientated, adapting to the needs and preferences of the patient has become a necessity. Patients today have direct access to their health records, including laboratory test results and care summaries, as well as the ability to schedule and securely message their providers—all with a few clicks of a button. With 70% of physicians now e-prescribing via their electronic health record (EHR) system, consumers have adjusted to and expect that level of convenience and compliance.

While HME providers strive to ensure patients have the equipment and supplies they need, today's ordering and fulfillment process is inefficient. Not only does this decrease quality of care, with patients waiting 7-10 days on average for their much needed medical supplies, but it also inhibits order fulfillment and payer reimbursement of HME. HME is covered by Medicare, Medicaid and commercial insurance. Yet, more than 50% of claims are rejected by CMS, causing patient orders to go unfulfilled. Much of this stems from insufficient order information, including supporting documentation.

Embracing electronic ordering enables collaboration of care and helps ensure timely patient receipt of medically necessary equipment and supplies. This helps reduce out-of-pocket costs for patients who might not otherwise know their HME is covered by their payer. Ensuring access to and affordability of medical equipment and supplies are key aspects of the customer care
experience.

Ken Majkowski is the chief strategy officer at Stratice Healthcare. Reach him at kmajkowski@stratice.com.