Carestream adds note-taking functionality to EMR-Elite

Carestream Dental, the exclusive manufacturer of Kodak Dental Systems, has introduced an updated version of EMR-Elite for WinOMS CS Practice Management software.

The product enhancement was unveiled this week at the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) annual meeting in Philadelphia.

The latest version of EMR-Elite streamlines the way clinicians capture notes to support a chartless practice, the company said. The redesign of EMR-Elite's operative, SOAP, and progress notes offers users the flexibility to accommodate differences between patients' cases and doctors' note-taking preferences. With a built-in word processor, EMR Notes eliminates the need to create and import separate Microsoft Word documents.

The update also includes a new tab layout that makes it easier to find needed items, improved navigation for faster searches, and the ability to "digitally flip" through a patient's chart, Carestream noted. A full library of customizable templates also is included within the software to help save time when taking notes or entering orders. Available templates address common procedures and case documentation, such as third molar extractions, implant placement, and pathology reports. Text "snippets" draw on a database of frequently used phrases and are template-specific.

EMR-Elite also includes a point-of-care module and an anesthesia module. The point-of-care module can be used on a tablet PC anywhere there is wireless access in the office, while the anesthesia module enables records to be attached directly to patient charts for easy access and safe storage. When saving records with the anesthesia module, an unalterable digital time stamp is applied to the file, keeping practices in compliance with medicolegal requirements.

EMR-Elite also makes it easier to share and collaborate with colleagues, helping practices manage referrals, Carestream noted. Scans and notes can be shared via a USB drive or CD to facilitate collaboration and improve overall patient outcomes. In addition, a new search tool allows users to quickly locate any procedure, note, or consult.