If you're utilizing a cloud-based system in optical in your practice, you've probably experienced moments of gratitude for that. The cloud is full of benefits that help save your practice time and money, and it achieves this all while making you and your staff more safe and efficient.
While you may be satisfied with your current way of doing things, cloud computing offers an array of benefits in the long run. If you aren't in the cloud yet, these reasons might convince you.
Why You and Your Patients Should be Thankful for Cloud Computing in Optical
Easy Access
The way you access a cloud-based system is easily one of the biggest benefits. With cloud computing, you don't have to worry about installing software on each of the devices that you want to access your system from. With any cloud solution, you simply log into your system from a website on the Internet. This means, as long as you're using a device that can access the Internet, and you have a reliable Internet connection - you can access your system. So from your office, or from the comfort of your home, you'll have 24/7 access.
Reliable Maintenance and Security
With legacy software systems, you're responsible for managing a server in your practice. Responsibilities and IT knowledge of maintaining a server can be a lot. However, if you're using a system that's in the cloud, your server isn't located in your practice. This means you don't have to worry about the maintenance and security of your server - it's all handled by your vendor. Better yet, security is one of your vendor's top priorities so you can rest assured that your system and data are being held to the highest security standards.
Updates
With the software of the past, updates tend to be a big undertaking and happen pretty infrequently. So either you're working off outdated software, or you're busy buying the latest version and trying to find the time to install the updates without disrupting your office. Cloud-based software is updated automatically, and you don't have to do a thing. You won't have to pay for updates to the system, and they happen much more often than updates with legacy software. Your vendor will likely send you and your staff a notification message letting you know when an update is happening and what changes you might notice so there aren't any surprises.
Data Efficiency
The cloud can also help you increase efficiency on daily tasks you perform in your office. You will have the freedom of picking your device which means you can even use tablets if that will help speed up your workflow and increase patient engagement. Cloud systems will also help encourage collaboration between staff members, as multiple users are able to access the same data and make updates at the same time.
Patient Satisfaction
Not only should you and your staff be thankful for the cloud, but your patients should be too. If you're using a cloud-based system, and more specifically a cloud system that has complete certification for Meaningful Use, your EHR is going to be loaded with tools that your patients will love too. They'll get access to a patient portal that allows them a secure line of communication with health care professionals online to help work through their treatment and prescription plans. On top of that, they'll be able to check their patient records to make sure that their information is as up-to-date as possible. Your patients will also be thankful if your system comes with error-checking features that help ensure the accuracy of their data, insurance claims, and electronic prescriptions.
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