Chiropractors just starting out in this industry may not realize that much of their day will be spent on administrative duties, as documentation is a large part of running a chiropractic office. SOAP notes, billing, patient records, ordering supplies, scheduling and documenting employee information are all part of the day-to-day activities of a chiropractor, according to Dr. Michael Failla's article in The American Chiropractor.

However, a chiropractor usually goes into this field in order to interact with the patient and improve his or her care. The best way for a medical professional to focus on the patient is to reduce the amount of time spent on documentation and administrative duties.

Automation and software tools are one solution that will save a chiropractor precious time. Along with reaching meaningful use and receiving incentives, EHR technology will enable a chiropractor to gain a more efficient and patient-centered practice management system.

The federal government will soon require all medical facilities to implement EHR technology as well as new coding systems or else pay a penalty in Medicare reimbursements.

When attempting to avoid these penalties and receive incentives, a chiropractor should adopt automation software. For example, a patient's arrival can now be expedited by a bar code scan, a fingerprint check or a pin number. Patient scheduling software allows a chiropractor and staff to see every appointment a patient has had and will have in the future along with their insurance information all in one spot. EHR software also enables a chiropractor to view a patient's treatment plan, SOAP notes and diagnosis codes. 

In order to avoid hefty penalties and gain incentives, a chiropractor should consider implementing chiropractic EHR software. Affordable EHR software will reduce the amount of time spent on documenting and allow a chiropractor to focus their energies on the patient.