Popular software solutions
Our 3rd annual technology roundup
by Amy Mitchell

Choosing the perfect software application for your practice can be like finding a needle in a haystack.

Feature sets, operating-system compatibility, and a host of other factors make choosing the right program a daunting task. The greater the variety, the harder it is to choose, unless you enter the market with an articulated preference.

Before you begin your research, make a list of all thethings you would like your software to do. Prioritize the list to know what features and functions are most important to you and your staff. This will allow you to narrow the list of possible solutions before you shop, rather than waste your time researching solutions that will not perform the basic functions of your office.

Once you have identified your needs, visit the various software companies online, and don’t be afraid to call and ask questions. Ask for an on-site demonstration with you and your staff. Note how user-friendly both the software and support are.

To aid you in your choice, Chiropractic Economics gathered many of the most popular options available today. We asked these companies to provide us with information on their newest and most popular products. Chiropractic Economics does not test nor endorse any of the products listed. This listing is only a sample of the practice management software available. For a complete listing, visit our directory on page 76.

WritePad The WritePad Electronic Medical Reporting System from Addison Health Systems is a full-service exam note and report generation system. Its features include communication functions, such as intra-office e-mail messaging of alerts, to-dos, and notes, and a Virtual physician’s assistant function with which patients set up their own files and fill out their patient histories. Saving time, increasing HIPAA compliance, and increasing insurance claims acceptance are some of the benefits this application is designed to provide. Call 800-496-2001 or visit www.writepad.com.

AccountMaster AccountMaster Chiropractic automatically prepares HCFA-1500 insurance forms, generates statements, and manages accounts receivable. With letter writing and scheduling functions, this application integrates office tasks such as posting appointment information to accounts receivable at day’s end and assigning late charges to overdue accounts. A Mac OS X native version is now available in addition to the version for Windows 98 and Windows XP. Call 800-658-3899 or visit www.accountmaster.com.

Chirocere Chirocere, distributed by the American Chiropractic Association, is an ASP management system designed to reduce overhead costs and streamline clinical and administrative operations for practice of all sizes. This Web-based service provides real-time cash and financial management, 24-hour access to patient and treatment information from any Internet-connected computer, and technical support for office data transition, application training, and other requests. This program has no acquisition charges or support fees, and upgrades are free and automatic. Call 727-573-1233 or visit www.chirocere.com.

AMS AMS Software offers a practice management application that manages appointments, patient records, and billing; generates reports; supports electronic claim submission; and controls managed care. Compatible for multiple-doctor and single-doctor practices, it has recently been enhanced to provide improved customization of data fields, patient checkout, and outstanding insurance payment tracking. It is fully networkable and designed for use with Windows 95, 98, 2000, NT, or XP. Call 919-570-6001 or www.ams-software.com.

CSG Chiropractic Service Group’s CSG Solution facilitates scheduling, integrated billing, and electronic records and chart notes. Designed to simplify administrative processes, improve cash flow, and increase revenue through proper coding, this application also has features to automate paperwork and help doctors provide better, more detailed chart notes and reports. Doctors can track plan progress by appointment schedules and stay connected with automated birthday, anniversary, and “miss you” letters. Twenty-four-hour technical support is available. Call 253-682-2700 or visit www.chiroservicegroup.com.

Chiropractic Advantage Chiropractic Advantage practice management software, powered by Compulink, is fully customizable and features wireless and paperless documentation. This application integrates scheduling, billing, documentation, reporting, marketing, and inventory to enhance office efficiency. It also assists with managed care, recalls, referrals, and communication. Included are many interfaces to applications such as Quick Books, MAAS 90, PeachTree, Express Bill, and WebMD. Call 800-456-4522 or visit www.AdvantageSoftware.com.

E•Z BIS Office E•Z BIS Office version 6.2 adds security measures designed to aid doctors with HIPAA compliance requirements. This practice management software package is modular by design, which allows the user to choose the combination of features that best fits the practice’s needs. Every combination of billing and accounting features, appointment-scheduling features, and automated SOAP note features includes management and statistical reports, a built-in word processor for easy mail-merge correspondence, and a survey generator for creating custom analysis reports. Call 800-445-7816 or visit www.ezbis.com.

Touchscreen EHR Clinic Pro’s Touchscreen Electronic Health Record can be used with a touch screen, pen tablet, or mouse. The application provides free electronic claims, a customizable appointment scheduler, mail-merge letters, and financial reports. Orthopedic/neurologic exam templates, x-ray listing templates, applied kinesiology exams, and treatment records that include progress notes and palpation findings are also included. Text can be modified according to practice method. A new doctor starter package is available. Call 866-333-2776 or visit www.chiropractic-software.com.

M.I.S. Clinic M.I.S.C. from DataCom Software is a front-office system designed to help maintain a smooth workflow. By adding modules, users can customize the application to their needs. The multiple fee schedules for CPTs allow different prices to be charged for different insurance companies. New workers’ compensation pre-authorization and PR3 reports can be used for any insurance company. Other new and updated reports include ASHP and scheduled visit statistics with updated Medicare and insurance billing formats. Call 888-700-6472 or visit www.misclinic.com.

Virtual Sign In Compass Marketing International’s Virtual Sign In (VSI) comes in two versions, both of which are adaptable. The standard version consists of an LCD signature capture terminal and software that time-stamps each signature and applies a name, location, or provider of treatment next to the signature, along with personal notes. Users can view total patients signed in, query, and print signatures. Designed to enhance office efficiency, this application also provides signature verification to help offices track and provide proof of patient visits, and aids in HIPAA compliance. Call 800-430-0331 or visit www.virtualsignin.com.

Document Plus Document Plus automated forms and scanner enable the collection of comprehensive information to produce the high-quality reports. The forms facilitate complete documentation and correspondence by using automated doctor’s questionnaires, clinical forms, a personal computer, software, and scanner. When read by an optical scanner, the forms combine together to generate medical records available to the doctor prior to seeing the patient. Designed to save time and improve communica-tion, the system also reduces malpractice exposure by generating comprehensive documentation. Call 770-814-2442 or visit www.docplus.net.

Easy Billing Easy Billing by EZ Medical Services is a line-item payment system with daily, monthly, and master reports. It includes functions for letter writing, mailing labels and envelopes, aging, patient statements, superbill receipts, electronic billing and HCFA printing. The platinum version, released in May, features a process for customized aging searches, a new collections process and reports, and new patient statements with statement cycles choices. With batch payments, verification checks, small balance write offs, and automatic defaults for data entry, the application is available for Macintosh and Windows platforms. Call 505-424-9263 or visit www.easybillingsoftware.com.

EZClaim Advanced EZClaim Advanced medical billing software with the direct billing module for chiropractic offices now has the capability to send direct electronic claims to any payer that accepts the HIPAA ANSI 837 file format. It also handles multiple fee schedules and maintains progress notes. Users who send claims direct and receive electronic remittance can post payment information automatically. An expanded payments and adjustments function allows detailed tracking of receivables. Additional features include patient statements and authorization tracking. Call 877-650-0904 or visit www.ezclaim.com.

EZNotes EZNotes documentation system features a “status check” screen that displays important patient information, as well as a patient reminder feature. Function areas include multiple doctor profiles, x-ray positioning guidelines, nutrition, standard documents, patient exercise routines, narrative reports, and office information. This touch-screen-operated application also generates exam, treatment plan, and x-ray reports, and is updated twice a month based on suggestions from users. Designed by chiropractors, this product is intended to promote patient compliance, avoid litigation, and generate accurate records. Call 866-821-6837 or visit www.eznotesinc.com.

Tracker Tracker by JTECH Medical is a computerized functional testing system. Version 5 features a new physical/neurological section for documenting deep tendon reflexes, sensory dermatomes, orthopedic testing, and myotomes. The new intake section documents patient complaints and work status. With the report writer, users can create narratives, data charts, and progress graphs, and save them as reusable templates. The wireless instruments utilize advanced radio tech-nology to facilitate accurate data transfer. Current Tracker users can upgrade to wireless and use a database conver-sion feature to maintain continuity with existing records. Call 801-478-0680 or visit www.jtechmedical.com.

Practice made Perfect K and K Systems’ Practice made Perfect software features practice management, patient information, insurance and condition information, day sheets, billing, and general system information. The application produces numerous statistical and analytical reports to evaluate weekly, monthly, and yearly practice growth; number of new patients and visit averages; income from services provided; and outstanding collections. The database updates immediately when the user posts transactions or creates bills, and is compatible for merges with word processing documents. Call 631-543-8200 or visit www.KandKSystems.com.

ChiroSuite ChiroSuite patient management system from Life Systems Software features electronic patient signature, new reports, enhanced HIPAA security, auto search functions, and color-coding by treatment plan. It archives inactive accounts, allows more options for HCFA box 19, and permits up to 10 accounts to be open simultaneously. Completely integrated, the application uses SOAP documentation to create billing, sends digital travel card messages from the adjusting room to the front desk, and implants the diagnosis from the documentation into insurance claims. Additional features include pop-up messages and reminders, memos, and phone logs. Call 800-543-3001 or visit www.LifeSystemsSoftware.com.

Eclipse Eclipse practice management software by GalacTek provides document automation, allowing the user to import routine forms and add patient information to help reduce paperwork. Its electronic health record function keeps handwritten notes, encounter forms, lab results, and insurance cards all in one place. The application also includes billing, scheduling, daily notes, an extensive alerts system, certified HIPAA-compliant electronic claims and remittance, and security features. Virtual training is available 24 hours. Call 800-966-1462 or visit www.galactek.com.

ChiroX4 The ChiroX4 data set by MicroFour is designed for use with the PracticeStudio suite of products. Patient information can be uploaded into PocketStudio, allowing doctors to carry their charting devices with them, and patient records are available simultaneously on multiple devices. Its new features include intra-office chat and instant messaging; improved data transmission; real-time wireless operation with fast data synchronizations; improved data set interface for easier, faster, and more efficient data input; and an enhanced graphics engine interface. Available for both desktop and PocketStudio systems, it is compatible with wireless tablets and PDAs. Call 866-491-6146 or visit www.goto.micro4.com.

Charting Plus Charting Plus by MediNotes is an electronic health records application that has interfaces for document management and instant medical history. The system allows patients to enter their chief complaints and HPIs. Customizable templates allow chiropractors to document complicated patient cases and create patient instructions with a point-and-click interface. Coding features include ICD-9 and CPT codes, an E&M wizard that suggests appropriate codes based on the information documented, and a custom history of present illness based on a chief complaint with E&M credit. The software eliminates the need to transcribe and to pull physical charts. It also allows multiple user access to records. New features are released to users every 6 to 8 weeks. Call 515-327-8850 or visit www.medinotes.com.

QuickPractice QuickPractice practice management software system integrates with Intuit QuickBooks, has a premium electronic billing service, and has recently added more advanced reporting tools. The application manages patient records, file notes, and referrals, and generates payment receipts, statements, and day sheets. Additional capabilities include HCFA-1500 forms, accounts receivable reporting, codes management, and lists management. Deluxe and professional versions offer further enhancements. Call 516-622-1992 or visit www.quickpractice.com.

MyEMR The MyEMR 2006 Pocket PC Personal Injury Edition builds on previous versions of its random text generation engine for daily SOAP notes and reports with customizable text entries, including the MyFindings anatomy palpation for extremity findings, or any grouping or distinction of anatomy, with objective findings applicable to each region. Both Standard Edition and Personal Injury Edition are customizable. The MyEMR desktop version is free and downloadable from www.myemrfree.com. Call 800-481-9060 or www.softwaremotif.com.

PDQ PDQ is a portable notes system for the PDA that uses ThumbWare touchscreen technology. The application provides features for reviewing a patient chart and sketching a note. Its portability allows notes to be completed in the treatment room. Fully customizable, the system generates randomized and personalized notes that are stored and managed in the Q’Notes EMR. Both PDQ and Q’Notes offer security and compliancy. Call 800-899-2468 ext 238 or visit www.qnotes.com.

ChiroPulse Advanced ChiroPulse Advanced from Pulse Software is practice management software that includes a tracking and internal security system for HIPAA compliance, complete SOAP notes, full patient reports, and a complete billing system. The application implements new technology providing a Microsoft-powered SQL Database, network data retrieval, real-time wireless data retrieval and updating with a wireless notebook, and database management tools. Call 908-289-9613 www.chiropulse.com.

ChiroTrac ChiroTrac patient information by TPS is available in two versions: one for Palm OS handheld devices and one for stand-alone Windows-based PCs. The Palm application includes a companion PC application with HotSync capability. Both versions include a database archive application. Call 807-767-7930 or visit www.ChiroTrac.ca.

Stellar Office Stellar Office from Stellar Chiropractic Solutions is office-management software that assists with appointment scheduling and printing claims forms for insurance collections. Designed to reduce overhead while increasing efficiency, profits, and cash flow, the software manages daily accounting, deductible only billing, diagnosis and treatment files, electronic claims submission, letter writing, mail merge, missed appointment log, monthly and single statements, patient ledger posting, patient profile, payment reports, progress notes, recall lists, transaction reports, and daily, monthly, and yearly reports. Call 800-741-4755 or visit www.stellarchiro.com.

Autumn8 Autumn8 from TGI Software provides features and additions that clients recommend. This integrated office solution does billing, scheduling, SOAP notes, narratives, patient management, management reports, electronic filing, patient statements, mailing labels, and patient letters. Networkable and fully integrated, this application is also HIPAA-compliant. Call 800 645-4309 or visit www.tgisolutions.com.

Sammy Systems Sammy Systems by ICS Software is billing and practice management software that enables doctors to manage files, share information with their associates, and gain assistance with practice management tasks. The Sammy Systems product line includes SammyUSA, SimpleSam, SimpleSam Plus, SamNotes, Pocket Sammy, Sammy Card Scanner, and TouchTone Sam. Applications are HIPAA-compliant and frequently updated with current information. Call 516-766-2129 or visit www.icssoftware.net.

Platinum System Platinum System is an entire office automation package designed to reduce and optimize working hours, improve communication among team members, and let patients experience the best chiropractic care. With 10 fully integrated modules, the system manages reception, documents, and arrivals, and assists with patient calling, x-rays and postures imaging, communication, recall, clinic diagnosis, and backup. Two optional modules are vertebral thermograph evaluation and pre-authorized payment. Call 866-235-3284 or visit www.platinumsystem.com.

ChiroWrite Softworx Solutions’ ChiroWrite records patient visit and examination results and prints narratives, SOAP notes, or other reports for documentation. All information is stored in an industry standard database for easy retrieval at later dates. Version 1.1, released in July 2005, provides enhanced SOAP notes generation and the ability to include images such as x-rays and photos. The application also interfaces with billing systems, and can be installed in the following configurations: stand alone; for networked for single doctor, for multiple doctors, or for multiple locations. Call 800-642-6082 or visit www.softworxsolutions.com.

SOAPware SOAPware by Docs, Inc., is an electronic health record for clinics. Designed to replace paper charts, this application offers a fully customizable system for codes, protocols, and reports, with more than 250 built-in protocols and more than 200 built-in patient handouts. It stores patient pictures and ancillary reports, making all patient information available onscreen. Patient data can be entered by template or voice recognition system, or as free text. Call 800-455-7627 (SOAP) or visit www.docs.com.

DC-PowerNotes DC-PowerNotes recordkeeping software, by ClaKen Software, provides customizable randomized text; detailed or general daily SOAP. notes; initial, final, and reexamin-ations; narrative reports based on past notes or created independently; visit counters; x-ray reports; and more. Version 6.0 is designed to increase cash flow and improve office cost-efficiency. Major updates are released annually and are mailed to every registered user. Call 800-835-3217 or visit www.claken.com.

Quixote Quixote business software for the private practice does scheduling, patient tracking, accounting, and SOAP notes. Many of the new capabilities reflect ideas from users; exams, narratives, and streamlined tools for processing patients at the point of encounter are recent additions. The monthly support price includes automatic, off-site, data backup. Designed to improve patient and staff satisfaction as well as the bottom line, the package includes automatic updates, touchscreen compatibility, and real-time support. Call 619-299-2930 or visit www.PPT4Drs.com.

Auto-DOC Auto-DOC documentation software, by Anywhere MD, produces SOAP notes, narrative reports, IME/QME reports, physician letters, and managed care forms. Designed to help increase collections, reduce paperwork, and decrease liability, the standard program includes over 30 narrative templates and allows customization of personal narrative reports. Call 800-381-3001 or visit www.auto-doc.com.

ChiroSoft ChiroSoft is designed to make posting services and payments easier. Insurance logs for each patient facilitate tracking insurance billings. An appointment scheduler is part of the package. The month-to-month rental is full service, with updates included. Version 9 will be released in fall 2005, with templates for every patient’s primary and secondary. Call 800-345-7638 or visit www.chirosoft.com.

TPS 2000 The Practice Solution (TPS) 2000 is a state-of-the-art, HIPAA-compliant software combining the various elements needed to run a practice smoothly. This software handles insurance, billing, appointment scheduling, soap notes, and more. The latest version, released in June, has more than 27 improvements based on surveys of chiropractors. Additional functions include inventory, statistics, and notes. The insurance follow-up center enables rapid tracking and collection of unpaid or partially paid submissions. Call 800-955-6448 or visit www.eonsystems.net.

Amy Mitchell is assistant editor at Chiropractic Economics. She can be reached at amitchell@chiroeco.com.