Everyone knows that electronic medical record (EMR) systems collect and store patient records digitally. But what can they do specifically for substance abuse treatment centers? Before discussing specific requirements, it’s crucial to understand why having a reliable and efficient EMR system is essential.
If you’re interested in using an EMR system, particularly for centers treating substance abuse, contact Sunwave Health online or call 561.576.6037 to talk to our experts or schedule a demo.
What to Expect from an EMR System
Adopting electronic health record systems faces barriers like high initial costs and insufficient returns on investment. However, newer EMR systems largely resolve these issues. Effective EMR systems offer crucial benefits in clinical settings, including:
- Assistance with patient scheduling
- Standards-based electronic data storage
- Computerized decision-support systems that prevent drug interactions
- Access to past and current tests across various care settings
- Easy access to patient information, such as allergies, lab results, medications, and diagnoses
EMR systems enhance electronic communication between providers and patients while ensuring HIPAA compliance to protect sensitive information. A patient’s electronic health record contains information about their health history, so mitigate any risks.
EMR Requirements for Substance Abuse Treatment Patients
Using Sunwave Health’s EMRs as unified treatment platforms for patients hoping to overcome substance abuse creates a scenario where their treatments and diagnoses can be easily managed and tracked. With the introduction of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), healthcare systems were encouraged to integrate behavioral health and medical healthcare services. Clinics and hospital systems were also encouraged to use electronic medical records to improve the quality of care and information exchange about a patient.
Part of the reason why EMR use with substance use disorder (SUD) patients is so important is to keep track of their treatments and to collect data on implementing behavioral healthcare.
Considering Requirements for SUD Patients
Does federal law protect a substance use disorder patient’s confidentiality regarding drug or alcohol abuse, or can this information be included in the electronic health information exchange system? Federal laws enacted about thirty years ago recognized that some patients may avoid seeking treatment due to concerns about their information being shared on a health information exchange (HIE) system.1 There are specific requirements for substance use treatment programs, including patient consent for disclosures. This is why organizations like substance abuse treatment programs must comply with Part 2 of Title 42 of the Code of Federal Regulations, which governs the confidentiality of SUD patient records.2
Using EHR or EMR in the Behavioral Health Field
Electronic health records (EHRs) and electronic medical records are beneficial in the behavioral health field for several reasons:
- Enhance patient record security
- Facilitate faster and easier sharing of patient information
- Improve accessibility
- Provide streamlined billing options
Telehealth is also now included in some EHR programs, such as Sunwave Health’s platform for SUD treatment providers and behavioral health.
Choosing EHR Programs to Coordinate Treatment
Coordinating treatment is essential in behavioral health when building customer relationships. Patients often face not only mental health or substance abuse issues but also physical health concerns. For instance, a psychiatrist may diagnose a dual condition requiring inpatient hospital treatment. The hospital physician would then document this information for the primary care physician and psychiatrist to access for further treatment. Other clinicians might need more information about the patient’s medical history to support them during their SUD treatment protocol.
Connect with Sunwave Health and Schedule a Demo of Our EMR for Substance Abuse Treatment Today
Sunwave Health offers a comprehensive and secure EMR system specifically designed for substance abuse treatment centers. Contact us online or call 561.576.6037 today to learn more about our EMR and schedule a demo to see how it can benefit your center’s operations and patient care.
Footnotes:
- SAMHSA – Frequently Asked Questions – Applying the Substance Abuse Confidentiality Regulations to Health Information Exchange (HIE)
- SAMHSA – Medications for Substance Use Disorders
