As with anything that involves an enormous amount of stored information, medical transcription can be a costly and frustrating part of any physician's job. Many hospitals and private practitioners are turning to off site companies to reduce operating costs and enhance the quality of patient care. This article discusses the whys and hows of using a medical transcription company.
So what are some of the benefits of outsourced medical dictation services? For starters, good companies provide services to all types and sizes of medical practices, clinics, and organizations. They are the perfect solution for any type or size of facility that wants to reduce transcription operating costs, improve document workflow, enhance quality of work life for physicians, increase revenues, and increase patient satisfaction.
In addition, outsourcing balances staffing needs, handles overflow, and centralizes medical transcription services. Outsourcing also offers an efficient solution when medical transcription volumes vary; the HIM director can minimize the staff's idle time during slow periods, deal with seasonal fluctuations, avoid stress and overtime during peak periods, and account for vacation coverage.
Now that we've discussed the benefits of using outsourced dictation services, here are a few questions you should ask when choosing a company.
o Ask how long the company has been in business. Avoid startups at all costs.
o Ask the number of clients they have and if the company will provide references. Call the references to get feedback on the company.
o Ask the company about their support hours. One sure sign that a company has poor customer service is if it only has a toll-free number or simply relies on e-mail.
o Ask if the company uses a web-based system. Online access to patient reports is critical today. Avoid companies that don't have this capability.
o Ask about the company's standard turn-around time. A good company can return reports in less than twenty-four hours, some in as little as four.
o Ask how the company bills clients. The fairest way of billing is per line, which is usually defined as sixty-five characters. Companies who bill per audio minute make money whenever there is silence, and billing by page gives them money even if the page does not fill up.
o Ask if the company outsources their work overseas. While most do not, it is an important consideration that may affect the efficiency of your facility.
o Ask how the company audits reports. The company should have several QA checks and experienced proofreaders to ensure quality control.
o Ask for a copy of the company's client-services agreement. Read the fine print to check that the company doesn't hold you to their service for any amount of time.
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