Interoperability: Take better care of patients—and payments

A. At a conference in February, I participated in a demonstration of a new patient-centric interoperability experience to show how data can follow a patient through their transition from acute to home care to primary care. A key takeaway was how we as an industry can leverage different tools that exist in our referral source's systems to gather information necessary for reimbursement, while providing the patient with the best possible care transition experience. Here are some areas to consider with interoperability and reimbursement:

Real-time data access

Providers need instant access to data to ensure orders qualify for reimbursement. With interoperability, seamless data exchange helps supply the information you need to be reimbursed and, since the data is sent directly into your system without having to be re-keyed, it is right the first time. Data accessibility also provides increased visibility to other areas of your business that can affect reimbursement.

Forms completion

Interoperable systems can deliver the right information on intake, so the process for forms completion is streamlined. Completed and quickly generated forms can help you reduce your days sales outstanding, and help achieve complete and timely reimbursement.

Resupply and compliance

Having access to compliance and clinical follow-up information is essential for patients in therapy. Patients who receive sleep or oxygen therapy often need follow-up visits with referring providers to continue therapy. Interoperability will enable users to gather information and reduce manual steps in the process. Proactive patient follow-ups can reduce readmission rates, help to improve outcomes and save money.

Nick Knowlton is a vice president, business development, at Brightree. Reach him at nknowlton@brightree.com.