Health information managers (HIM) have full plates. They are responsible for managing, organizing, and securing all patient health information data, including but not limited to diagnoses, symptoms, physician notes, medical histories, procedures, test results, and financial statements. Their role is increasingly important as this data multiplies, and healthcare personnel across departments need to access and utilize it to make informed decisions.
Related: HIM Certifications: Which Ones Are Best?
Armed with the best document management software (DMS) and an HIM certification, a skilled health information manager can play a pivotal role in improving workflow by streamlining data management, ensuring accuracy and integrity, and enhancing overall efficiency. Here’s how it works:
Healthcare data continues to balloon, and with a DMS, a great health information manager can systematically organize these multitudes. The best document management software interfaces with existing EHRs to streamline management through one secure cloud-based dashboard. With standard classifications and naming conventions, HIMs can ensure various departments speak exactly the same language, making documents easy to catalog and retrieve. Through a DMS, an HIM will make data collection, storage, and retrieval simple and efficient. This greatly decreases time lost searching for information, and keeps all data in one repository so multiple locations can access it at any time. These measures all encourage increased productivity and better workflow with far less time spent handling documents.
One of the pillars of an excellent healthcare system is its attention to maintaining accurate patient records. A proficient HIM can enhance workflow by placing robust systems and protocols in place to maintain data accuracy and integrity. For instance, end-to-end encryption, access controls, and regular security audits build strong cybersecurity to keep documents safe. A DMS with version control also helps facilities keep data accurate by ensuring documents are always up-to-date and users only access the latest version. By preventing errors throughout the system, HIMs build invaluable trust with both personnel and patients, enhancing the workflows that allow healthcare professionals to make optimal decisions with confidence.
A DMS is an excellent HIM tool that brings increased productivity to all healthcare organizations, no matter the size. When a healthcare facility is paper dependent, transitioning to this digital tool significantly enhances efficiency, saving time, money, and space. Searchable documents decrease time spent tracking down documents, and automated workflows help shephard documents through vital approval processes, skipping the inefficiencies of email and paper storage. Fully scalable, the best document management software can be customized to meet the changing needs of a growing organization. A skilled HIM will also help organize ongoing training for the staff so they can leverage all relevant DMS capabilities, understand updates, and stay up-to-date on regulatory changes, efficiencies that power better workflows for all.
An excellent health information manager plays a valuable role in improving the overall workflow of a facility. With the help of their HIM certification and the best document management software, they can exponentially effect these processes by streamlining data management, ensuring data accuracy and integrity, and enhancing overall efficiency, all critical levers for excellent patient care and increased productivity. As technology continues to evolve, their role will become increasingly important in helping to advance patient care. We’ve experienced it already. At DigiDoc, we’ve seen firsthand how an HIM with the right DMS solution can transform an institution. Reach out today for a free demo!