1. Consider your workflow: Small practices may benefit from outsourcing transcription services but others could use an in-house service or voice recording to save time and resources. Consider the documentation volume when making this decision.
2. Pay attention to contractual terms: If you negotiate with a third-party service, figure out what to expect for the cost and negotiate the contract based just on what you need, line-by-line. Understand every detail before signing and insist the contract hold the company accountable for performance. You can negotiate some incentives and penalties based on performance.
3. Ensure intraoperability: Make sure software is compatible with your electronic health records and practice management system. You’ll want to share information across platforms and the transcription should communicate with all electronics in the practice.
4. Don’t pay for more than what you need: Even if flashy features could be useful for the staff, consider whether you need all the “bells and whistles.” You may only need the basic package to achieve your goals. Also figure out whether the fee is one time or subscription and how often there are software updates — and whether those updates come at with a price.
5. Check references within your specialty: Figure out from other physicians whether the transcription services are beneficial for their practices. Discuss the cost and quality of service before moving forward. You can also look online for reviews.
6. Leverage practice size: Small and midsized practices can choose smaller services and negotiate the contracts in their favor. There is more competition for their business.
7. Contracts should be short term: Short term contracts or monthly subscriptions are preferable because then you can switch services easily and more quickly if there are issues. Contracts for a year or less are ideal, and you can extend the contract in the future.
More articles on practice management:
Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance opens new Nashville office: 5 key notes
The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics celebrates independence amid competition
Ohio orthopedic group & Humana launch value-based bundle for total joints
