04 Mar How Cloud-Based Ophthalmic Image Management Elevated 2 Practices
Looking to consolidate patient images and diagnostic reports from imaging devices into one ophthalmic image management system that integrates with your optometry or ophthalmology EHR? Want to eliminate costly paper reports, time-consuming scanning and filing? Ready to save time with quick access 24/7 from any computer, tablet, or mobile device from anywhere?
If your answer is yes, that’s the beauty of a cloud-based image management system that uses HL7® (Health Level 7 International), Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM®), or other non-DICOM interfaces. A secure image management system controls user access with permission-based logins that comply with the HIPAA Security Rule to safeguard protected health information (PHI).
According to Research and Markets, the global ophthalmic Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) market is expected to grow by 8.5% by 2023. Cloud-based models are expected to grow at the highest rates.
We recently spoke with two optometrists, Brandon Chester, OD with Chester Eye Center (2-doctor practice), and Philip Gross, OD with Vision Quest Eye Care Center (4-doctor practice) about why they use a cloud-based image management system to simplify their EHR workflow.
Dr. Chester and Dr. Gross share a common bond: A determination to improve image management at their individual practices that strengthens the doctor-patient relationship.
How Has Ophthalmic Image Management Enhanced the Patient EHR Workflow or Saved You Time?
Brandon Chester, OD: Before we started using an image management system, our staff would have to manually attach each JPG image to the patient record in the EHR. It was very time-consuming. Now, with a click of a button, we can view all images in one location. Our ophthalmic imaging equipment integrates with MaximEyes EHR so the images automatically connect with EyeClinic Imaging.
Philip Gross, OD: Having our testing and imaging flow directly into MaximEyes EHR makes the workflow seamless. Viewing images side-by-side helps me detect changes quickly and annotate images. Not only do we save valuable time by not having to scan each image, we also save hundreds of dollars each year in printing expenses.
EyeClinic Imaging: Compare prior exam diagnostic images side-by-side to quickly detect changes, annotate images, and educate patients.
How Has Ophthalmic Image Management Helped You with Diagnosis or Decision Making?
Brandon Chester, OD: It’s now more convenient to view images from different ophthalmic imaging equipment at the same time. We can quickly look for correlations between the tests we ordered for the patient. You don’t have to flip back and forth like we used to do in the past.
Philip Gross, OD: With all testing and images from different instruments and manufacturers in one location, it saves time to search for what we need. We have direct access to all prior tests which ultimately makes for better continuity of care and better decision making.
How Does Ophthalmic Image Management Help You with Patient Education and Compliance or Acceptance of Further Testing?
Brandon Chester, OD: Our patients are very impressed that we can bring up their test results fast, especially fundus camera photos while they are still in the chair. It’s like they say, “a picture is worth a thousand words.”
Philip Gross, OD: Patients like to see the results electronically and not on paper. Over time, we continue to show them how we’re looking back at prior testing. Also, how we monitor for change or progression of ocular conditions is much easier with access to the prior testing. It’s a valuable tool for educating patients and explaining why tests are needed.
Ophthalmic Image Management: Features You Need to Succeed
EyeClinic Imaging by First Insight brings all your diagnostic imaging together, so you can easily access your patient data anytime, from anywhere on any computer, tablet or mobile device. It’s a true browser-based system designed for the cloud, and no VPNs, plugins or extra software are needed. Use EyeClinic Imaging as a standalone image management system or integrate it with your EHR, such as MaximEyes EHR.
Your success story is waiting to be told. Learn how cloud-based ophthalmic image management helps you strengthen relationships with your patients.