Question

Real-World Case 6

Certain members of the C-Suite at ABC Hospital are interested in adding voice recognition (VR) software to their current EHR. As Director of HIM, Cynthia Reedy is preparing an extensive report on the impact this would have on the department. She is proposing a feasibility study and subsequent RFP be completed. The initial aspects of the report include information on voice recognition, including the projected workload of VR software and how it would be implemented in daily EHR operations. This includes its usage for the standard transcribed reports (discharge summaries, histories/physicals, operative, autopsy, and consultation reports, etc.), as well as physician progress notes, nursing care documentation, and other therapy documentation. A review of historic and current transcription workload, number of staff with respective salary and benefits, supplies, and equipment is completed. Obviously, costs are a major issue. The cost of the software including maintenance and upgrades, as well as hardware such as additional microphones, monitors, etc. are identified. Training costs for users and quality evaluators are determined. Staffing (current staff whose position(s) will be upgraded) for documentation quality and validation plus technical support were also identified. Workload estimates for quality checks were figured into VR projected costs. The Human Resources Department was consulted regarding the process of lay-offs for some staff members whose positions were not upgraded. Project management costs, including site visits, will be added to the proposal.

4. Do you think the implementation of computers in HIM would have different impacts on older and younger employees?

5. How will the implementation of technology impact the number of employees in HIM?

6. Will there be a time when HIM is completely electronic? Explain your answer.

Answer 1

Answer: The implementation of computers in HIM has different impact on older and younger employees as the older people find it difficult to use the technology. Older people are not that much familiar to the technology and system. So, at this age making them to learn the use of technology becomes more difficult. In the case of younger employees, the technology seems to be friendly. They can easily operate and work on it. The learning capabilities of younger employees is much higher than the older employees.