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	<title>Hands On Technology</title>
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	<link>http://www.rehabsoftware.com</link>
	<description>Physical Therapy Software</description>
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		<title>Functional Reporting Made Easy</title>
		<link>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/functional-reporting-made-easy/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/functional-reporting-made-easy/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 May 2013 21:00:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>kboehmke</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rehabsoftware.com/?p=3102</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[At Hands On Technology we are proud to say that we have officially released our TheraOffice upgrade that complies with the new functional limitation reporting requirements.  Our users have had a few weeks now to really grasp and understand how the functional reporting sections work within our system.  We wanted to ensure that we gave <span class="excerpt-more">&#8594;</span>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>At Hands On Technology we are proud to say that we have officially released our TheraOffice upgrade that complies with the n<a href="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/blog-pic.jpg"><img class="alignright  wp-image-3103" title="blog pic" src="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/blog-pic.jpg" alt="" width="195" height="263" /></a>ew functional limitation reporting requirements.  Our users have had a few weeks now to really grasp and understand how the functional reporting sections work within our system.  We wanted to ensure that we gave our clients enough time to practice functional reporting before the July 1<sup>st</sup> deadline, and that they understood everything there was to know about it.</p>
<p>Our solution to the new functional reporting requirements came as part of a complete software upgrade.  This upgrade came equipped with two new sections in the documentation navigator; Functional Testing and Functional Reporting.  Within these sections, users have the option to choose from 15 functional tests that will automatically set the impairment ratings based on the patient’s results. In the Functional Reporting section, users can suggest results from the functional tests section, and the current and goal status CPT codes will be pre-populated based on those results.</p>
<p>Another great feature to this upgrade is that this section has a graph that will provide a visual indication of the patient’s progress based on the current and goal statuses. Users will also have the option of checking a “send” box which will send the given claim to Medicare.  An alert will inform them whether or not the particular visit will need to be sent.</p>
<p>Ultimately, we wanted to make the lives of TheraOffice users as easy as possible. We believe that the functional reporting sections added to TheraOffice will help to make these functional limitation requirements a lot simpler.  We want our clients to be able to focus more on their patient’s treatment and success, and less about the reporting requirements.</p>
<p>And if we didn’t make it simple enough, another device that TheraOffice users can anticipate is our mobile app for Windows 8 and iPad.  This app will allow users to complete functional tests with the scores being automatically imported into TheraOffice.  We are looking to release this by July, so keep your eyes and ears open for more information regarding this!</p>
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		<title>Benefits of Using &#8220;The Cloud&#8221;</title>
		<link>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/benefits-of-using-the-cloud/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/benefits-of-using-the-cloud/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 May 2013 16:27:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>kboehmke</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rehabsoftware.com/?p=3084</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The healthcare industry has never been one to quickly jump the bandwagon on new advanced IT solutions.  The adoption of EMR systems in healthcare practices took quite some time to become widespread.  It has now become apparent that physicians and specialists have noticed the benefits of using these systems due to the increasing use of <span class="excerpt-more">&#8594;</span>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/images3.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-3087" title="images" src="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/images3.jpg" alt="" width="236" height="213" /></a>The healthcare industry has never been one to quickly jump the bandwagon on new advanced IT solutions.  The adoption of EMR systems in healthcare practices took quite some time to become widespread.  It has now become apparent that physicians and specialists have noticed the benefits of using these systems due to the increasing use of them.  With that being said, cloud computing is also an idea that the healthcare industry is still iffy about and will most likely take some time to be implemented.</p>
<p>Cloud computing is not a new phenomenon.  Although the actual term of cloud computing wasn’t first used until 1997, the idea of being connected, sharing data, and accessing programs from anywhere was apparent in the late 1960’s.  Thanks to companies like salesforce.com, Google, Amazon, and Apple, the concept of saving data to a “cloud” has been able to evolve and change over time.  Today, a majority of everything we do revolves around saving data to a “cloud.”</p>
<p>It is no question that health care providers are concerned about adapting to the usage of cloud computing because of the risks that are involved.  Confidential patient information and other vital medical records will essentially be stored “somewhere on the internet” and not just written on a piece of paper and locked away in a filing cabinet.  This idea alone would be a good enough reason for practitioners to not want to start using the cloud to store data.</p>
<p>Although there are legitimate reasons to be concerned about using cloud based solutions, it seems to be that the positives definitely outweigh the negatives.  If used and implemented correctly, storing information on the cloud can help save time, money, and improve the overall success of the clinic.</p>
<p>Security seems to be one of the main concerns with cloud computing.  The cloud is actually a very secure place to store medical records.  Data is encrypted and securely backed up and can be easily recovered if a problem were to occur.  Storing data to on-site infrastructures will inevitably add up over time, thus overwhelming the hard drive or structure.  By storing data onto the cloud, health care providers can basically store an abundant amount of information without the concern of slowing down the system or overwhelming it.</p>
<p>Being mobile has also become very apparent in not just the healthcare industry, but the business world as well.  Many people are now working from home and they have the ability to do that because all of their information and files can be accessed from pretty much anywhere.  Although doctors and physicians do not have the luxury of being able to work from home, they can however pull up medical records remotely.  Instead of being stuck in the office after hours, physicians can fill out medical records, notes, or documents from the comfort of their own home.  This also benefits the patients because doctors can quickly access their records without even having to be in the office.</p>
<p>Web based EMR systems that use the cloud to store information will without a doubt become the “new thing” in healthcare.  Programs like TheraOffice Web come equipped with all the benefits there are to offer in practice management systems while storing all of the data on a cloud.  TheraOffice Web is developed on the 3.5 .NET environment from Microsoft.  All of the data is encrypted and sent to remote servers in the cloud.  Hands On Technology maintains the databases, backups, and other system tasks.  TheraOffice Web has the same features as TheraOffice On-Site and is even compatible with our new Schedule Viewer app for iPhone and iPad.</p>
<p>With the healthcare industry quickly changing and new reporting requirements becoming more prevalent, implementing EMR systems and web based EMR systems will eventually become required if clinics want to be successful.  Although the idea of storing confidential information to a “cloud” may seem a bit daunting, it will help the clinic out in the long run.</p>
<p>If you would like to learn more about TheraOffice Web and how it works, please contact sales@rehabsoftware.com.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Functional Limitation Reporting</title>
		<link>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/functional-limitation-reporting-2/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/functional-limitation-reporting-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 03 Apr 2013 19:40:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>kboehmke</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rehabsoftware.com/?p=3018</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Functional Reporting in TheraOffice July 1st is slowly creeping up on us.  For some, that means sitting by the pool enjoying the sun, but for Physical Therapists, this is a pretty significant date that we have been anticipating for quite some time.  As many of us are well aware, July 1st is the deadline for <span class="excerpt-more">&#8594;</span>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="color: #3366ff;"><strong>Functional Reporting in TheraOffice</strong></span></p>
<p>July 1<sup>st</sup> is slowly creeping up on us.  For some, that means sitting by the pool enjoying the sun, but for Physical Therapists, this is a pretty significant date that we have been anticipating for quite some time.  As many of us are well aware, July 1<sup>st</sup> is the deadline for the testing phase for Functional Limitation Reporting.  Any claims submitted to Medicare after this date without the correct codes and modifiers will be returned and unpaid.  Although we are currently in the testing phase for Functional Reporting, at Hands On Technology we understand how important it is for our clients to be knowledgeable about our Functional Reporting update and learn how to successfully submit the correct codes and modifiers before the deadline of July 1<sup>st</sup>.</p>
<p>At Hands On Technology, our customers always come first.  We have been working very hard on ensuring that we present our clients with the best possible solution for reporting these codes and modifiers.  We believe that our software update will ease a lot of worry and make the lives of our customers as easy as possible.</p>
<p>We are currently in the last phases of testing for this update.  We will shortly be announcing a system update that will be required in order to receive the update with the new Functional Reporting tools. We have launched a new functional reporting website page that will give up to date information as we lead up to the release date. On this webpage you will find tools to help train your staff and a list of upcoming training webinars.  Please keep checking this page for daily updates. <a href="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/functional-reporting/">http://www.rehabsoftware.com/functional-reporting/</a></p>
<p>Clinics will have more than enough time to test, train, and implement before the July 1 live reporting date.  We appreciate your patience and think you will be very happy with our latest feature addition to TheraOffice.</p>
<p><span style="color: #3366ff;"><strong>Functional Reporting vs. PQRS</strong></span></p>
<p>Can’t get enough of Functional Reporting and PQRS? We figured while we had your attention that it would be important to remind you yet again that PQRS and Functional Reporting are two separate reporting requirements for Medicare Rehabilitation Providers.</p>
<p>The purpose of the new Functional Reporting requirements is to collect data on beneficiary function during the course of therapy services to better understand patient conditions, outcomes, and expenditures.  Functional Reporting is used to measure the patient’s success at their initial evaluation, throughout their therapy process, and where they are at when they are discharged.  There are no financial incentives for Functional Reporting; it is simply just a requirement.</p>
<p>On the other hand, the purpose for PQRS is to encourage healthcare providers to report quality data on specific measures to collect data for future study of treatment efficacy.  PQRS is used to indicate a specific condition that a patient might be affected by.  Unlike Functional Reporting, PQRS comes with financial incentives.  In 2013, participating therapists will receive a bonus of .5% of total allowed charges for covered Medicare services (given the claims are submitted correctly). It is also important to report correctly during this time in order to avoid a penalty in 2015.  Beginning in 2015 when PQRS becomes mandatory, therapists that do not report enough quality measures correctly will be financially penalized.</p>
<p>Although Functional Reporting and PQRS are two separate reporting measures, both will be entered and billed to Medicare similarly.  You will be entering your G-codes and modifiers the same way you would enter CPT charges and modifiers.  And remember that a G-code is just a CPT code that happens to have a “G” in front of it.</p>
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		<title>ICD-10 Transition, Are You Ready?!</title>
		<link>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/icd-10-transition-are-you-ready/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/icd-10-transition-are-you-ready/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 20 Mar 2013 17:33:10 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>kboehmke</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rehabsoftware.com/?p=2811</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[On October 1, 2014, the ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision) codes used to report medical diagnosis and inpatient procedures will take the place of the current ICD-9 code sets.  This transition will affect everyone covered by HIPAA and any services and discharges on or after October 1, 2014 must use the ICD-10 codes.  <span class="excerpt-more">&#8594;</span>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>On October 1, 2014, the ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision) codes used to report medical diagnosis and inpatient procedures will take the place of the current ICD-9 code sets.  This transition will affect everyone covered by HIPAA and any services and discharges on or after October 1, 2014 must use the ICD-10 codes.  Originally, this transition was set to take place in 2013 but the Department of Health and Human Services recently announced a one year delay.</p>
<p>This delay may have caused an upset to some physicians that have already started planning for the 2013 implementation of ICD-10.  However, most physicians realize that this delay will allow for more time to practice and prepare for the transition. The changes with ICD-10 will come with an increased number of codes and code specificity and a change in the number of characters per code.  ICD-10 codes will be alphanumeric and will contain 3 to 7 characters, as opposed to ICD-9 codes that are mostly numeric and contain only 3-5 characters.  Although this transition is somewhat in the distant future, it wouldn’t hurt to start learning and training staff about the structure and features of ICD-10.  Coder training should begin 6-9 months prior to implementation.</p>
<p>There are two types of ICD-10 codes.  ICD-10-CM is the diagnoses code set that will be replacing ICD-9-CM Volumes 1 and 2, these codes will be used to report diagnoses in all clinical settings.  The other codes are ICD-10-PCS which are the procedure code sets replacing ICD-9-CM Volume 3, these codes are used to report hospital inpatient procedures.  The change to ICD-10 will not affect CPT coding for outpatient procedures.</p>
<p>Some of the necessary changes in order to be compliant by October 2014 will include using ANSI 5010 standards for all electronic transactions (these have been a requirement since January 1, 2012). Other improvements and conversions might include developing an implementation strategy and reviewing payment policies.</p>
<p><strong>For TheraOffice users</strong>, we will have an update that will be compliant with ICD-10 sometime next year.  We will have a transition period where you will be able to send out ICD-9 and ICD-10 claims before October 1, 2014. We will also offer a webinar once we get closer to implementation.  As far as costs that are involved, any TheraOffice On-Site users in subscription plan or Direct Purchase with an active support/maintenance plan and all TheraOffice Web users will receive this update when available at no extra cost.</p>
<p>In the meantime, it is never too early to start educating your staff on what ICD-10 is, how it will affect the practice, what needs to be done to prepare, and who is responsible for the transition.</p>
<p>The reason for the transition from ICD-9 to ICD-10 is because the ICD-9 codes are outdated and over 30 years old. Because we are continuously advancing in technology, it is important that these codes are useable for today’s treatments, reporting procedures, and payment processes.   Although this transition may cause a lot of extra work for physicians, the good news is that this change is additional proof that we are progressing, especially in the medical industry.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/icd10codes.png"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-2815" title="icd10codes" src="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/icd10codes.png" alt="" width="500" height="250" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Here are some links that you can follow for additional information:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.apta.org/Payment/Coding/ICD10/"><strong>http://www.apta.org/Payment/Coding/ICD10/</strong></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.ama-assn.org/ama/pub/physician-resources/solutions-managing-your-practice/coding-billing-insurance/hipaahealth-insurance-portability-accountability-act/transaction-code-set-standards/icd10-code-set.page"><strong>http://www.ama-assn.org/ama/pub/physician-resources/solutions-managing-your-practice/coding-billing-insurance/hipaahealth-insurance-portability-accountability-act/transaction-code-set-standards/icd10-code-set.page</strong></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.icd10data.com/"><strong>http://www.icd10data.com/</strong></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Practice Vibe &#8211; Clinic Planner and Analyzer</title>
		<link>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/practice-vibe-clinic-planner-and-analyzer-3/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/practice-vibe-clinic-planner-and-analyzer-3/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 08 Mar 2013 21:06:34 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>kboehmke</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rehabsoftware.com/?p=2762</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Introducing Practice Vibe Still can’t figure out why your clinic isn’t making a profit even though you’ve been seeing more patients then ever? No worries, we’ve got a solution! Hands On Technology’s latest creation, Practice Vibe, is a clinic planner and analyzer.  Practice Vibe gives practice owners and administrators a full view of the health <span class="excerpt-more">&#8594;</span>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Introducing Practice Vibe</strong></p>
<p>Still can’t figure out why your clinic isn’t making a profit even though you’ve been seeing more patients then ever? No worries, we’ve got a solution!</p>
<p>Hands On Technology’s latest creation, Practice Vibe, is a clinic planner and analyzer.  Practice Vibe gives practice owners and administrators a full view of the health of the practice by combining data from multiple sources into one application.  This allows for key metrics to be planned, tracked, and then analyzed which will ultimately help you make better business decisions while saving you time and money (sounds almost too good to be true!)</p>
<p><strong>How It Works</strong></p>
<p>The first step with Practice Vibe is to create a yearly plan which can be done at the company, facility, or provider levels.  You can start by creating a totally blank plan, copying a plan from a previous year, or even copying a plan from one provider to another.  Plans can also be easily increased or decreased or manually changed if future growth or decline is predicted for that year.</p>
<p>Each day the actuals for each data point will be pulled out of TheraOffice On-Site or TheraOffice Web and automatically uploaded to Practice Vibe. If a different EMR is being used, the actuals data can be entered manually. Other data points such as bank balance, provider salary, company salary, and other expenses can be entered in from other sources.</p>
<p><strong>And It Gets Even Better </strong></p>
<p>Practice Vibe was created to provide a 3 dimensional view of the plan and actuals data.  Once the plan and data have been uploaded into Practice Vibe, the day to day, month to month, and year to year trends can be compared using graphs or data grids.  These allow you to see where the actuals are compared to your plan. Practice Vibe can view data across each month and quickly find trends, identify problems, and keep your practice on track to meet its plan.</p>
<p>Practice Vibe has a dashboard with tile indicators. In these tiles there will be red, blue, and green arrows that will inform you whether or not you are meeting, exceeding, or falling below plan. Red arrows indicate that you are below plan. Blue arrows mean you are at or close to meeting your plan. Green arrows are a good indication, and mean that you are exceeding the plan.  You will be able to pick and choose which tiles you want to appear on your overview screen based off of what data you think is most relevant.</p>
<p><strong>Predicting the Future</strong></p>
<p>Using the BRAIN, Practice Vibe is able to predict the future. Now, it won’t be able to tell you if you will win the lottery, however, it can compare prior year actual data with the current plan, and current year actual data to determine where your company is headed before you get there (which is almost as good as winning the lottery).</p>
<p><strong>You Can’t Improve if You Can’t Measure Results…</strong></p>
<p>Which is why the inventors of TheraOffice Web and TheraOffice Onsite created Practice Vibe; for the sole purpose of helping you to improve your business in an efficient and inexpensive way. By following your trends, Practice Vibe will be able to provide you with the most optimum solution to get your business to where you want it to be.</p>
<p>Check out the Practice Vibe webpage for more information and learn how to become a beta tester!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Practice-Vibe-Image-11.jpg"><img class="alignnone  wp-image-2739" title="Practice-Vibe-Image-1" src="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Practice-Vibe-Image-11.jpg" alt="" width="581" height="359" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/PVImage.jpg"><img class="alignnone  wp-image-2766" title="PVImage" src="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/PVImage-1024x552.jpg" alt="" width="578" height="388" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Microsoft Surface Pro Tablet</title>
		<link>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/microsoft-surface-pro-tablet/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/microsoft-surface-pro-tablet/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 Feb 2013 23:32:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>kboehmke</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rehabsoftware.com/?p=2708</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Best of Both Worlds Microsoft has found a way to bring together the best of both worlds…a laptop in a tablet form, otherwise known as the Surface Pro Tablet.  The use of tablets in the physical therapy industry is slowly but surely becoming a common way for therapists to record patient information.  For physical therapists, <span class="excerpt-more">&#8594;</span>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><strong><span style="font-size: small;">Best of Both Worlds<a href="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Surface3.jpg"><img class="alignright  wp-image-2715" title="Surface3" src="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Surface3-260x300.jpg" alt="" width="234" height="249" /></a></span></strong></h2>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">Microsoft has found a way to bring together the best of both worlds…a laptop in a tablet form, otherwise known as the Surface Pro Tablet.  The use of tablets in the physical therapy industry is slowly but surely becoming a common way for therapists to record patient information.  For physical therapists, the Surface Pro can help to make all the difference in enhancing the overall efficiency of the clinic and creating better relationships with patients.  </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">With EMRs and practice management solutions rapidly becoming the go-to way to document patient cases, adapting to tablets can help make recording patient cases a lot more effective.  The most compelling reason for why therapists would want to use a tablet would be for the sole purpose that it gives you the ability to access records at anytime, anywhere.  Therapists can move from patient to patient while having all of their information with them and not have to return to their desk to make notes.  </span></p>
<h2><strong><span style="font-size: small;">Why the Surface Pro?</span></strong></h2>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">Microsoft’s Surface Pro was just released this past weekend and at Hands On Technology we were able to get a first-hand look at what this tablet is all about.  The Surface Pro is a full power PC that can be used as a tablet or laptop, and it runs the same office and home apps that work with pre-Windows 8 versions of the OS.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">The Surface Pro comes equipped with a removable keyboard and a pen.  The detachable keyboard comes in handy if you are just looking to hand write notes as opposed to typing documents.  Although the Surface is a touch screen device, the pen makes it easier and faster to record and write notes (perfect for a physical therapist), and it even comes with an eraser! </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">The Surface Pro is 13.5 mm thick and weighs only a mere 2 lbs.  Because it is so lightweight, it is easy to carry around throughout the clinic.  The battery life is also something to rave about, as it lasts for pretty much the entire day.  This allows for therapists to be able to treat their patients then return to the tablet to make notes without having to plug it in and charge it. </span></p>
<h2><strong><span style="font-size: small;">But We Still Don’t Know What It Is… </span></strong></h2>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">Hand written notes are now a thing of the past.  Therapists are quickly adjusting to this change and incorporating the use of tablets into their practices.  The use of these tablets, like the Surface Pro, will help to increase professional productivity because they are portable, easy to use, and creates for better patient interaction.  </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;">The real question now is, is it a laptop or a tablet? We’ll let you decide. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Surface2.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-2713" title="Surface2" src="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Surface2-300x248.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="248" /></a></span></p>
<p>Here is a link with comparisons of various tablets.  After browsing through the different tablets, it is important to do some further research to ensure that you are choosing the tablet that can meet all of your needs. If you have any questions or need further assistance we will be happy to help you out!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Tablet-Comparison.xlsx">Tablet Comparison</a></p>
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		<title>Functional Limitation Reporting Roadmap</title>
		<link>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/functional-limitation-reporting-roadmap/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/functional-limitation-reporting-roadmap/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 08 Feb 2013 22:58:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>kboehmke</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rehabsoftware.com/?p=2691</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Affordable Care Act ushers in a new era in physical therapy and is right around the corner.  Functional limitation reporting or G Codes – are one of the many new requirements in physical therapy for the treatment of Medicare patients.  These new requirements have surely caused concerns for many in the industry, rest assured, <span class="excerpt-more">&#8594;</span>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The Affordable Care Act ushers in a new era in physical therapy and is right around the corner.  Functional limitation reporting or G Codes – are one of the many new requirements in physical therapy for the treatment of Medicare patients.  These new requirements have surely caused concerns for many in the industry, rest assured, if you are a TheraOffice On-Site or TheraOffice Web user, you will be compliant by the July 1<sup>st</sup> deadline.</p>
<p>Although there is no financial incentive to G Codes (like there are for PQRS), reporting these codes will now become a requirement.  The testing period between January 1 and July 1 will not result in any rejected claims; however, once this testing phase is over, any claims without the correct G Codes and modifiers will be returned and denied for all Medicare claims.</p>
<p>We’ve been listening and watching to see what would work best in the practices of TheraOffice users and we have come out with a couple ways to help make your life as easy as possible (at least from a reporting standpoint!)  Below is a roadmap of what we’re working on now:</p>
<h2><strong>Step 1 – Update TheraOffice</strong></h2>
<p>The first step to adding the G Codes into TheraOffice will begin within the next few weeks!  For TheraOffice On-Site users, an update will be published that contains the normal maintenance fixes and a few new small features.  This update will also contain new features to help make the following download easier…</p>
<h2><strong>Step 2 – Manual G Code Testing</strong></h2>
<p>The next step will be an update that will add new sections to TheraOffice Documentation which will allow for manual G Code entry and testing.  For TheraOffice On-Site users, this will be a CD update which will need to be updated on each computer and the database.  For TheraOffice Web customers, this will just be a normal downloadable client software update.</p>
<p>Once this update has been applied, the Document Map found in Documentation will now have two new sections: Outcomes and Functional Limitation Reporting (see below).</p>
<p><a href="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/pic.png"><img class="alignnone  wp-image-2693" title="pic" src="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/pic.png" alt="" width="237" height="302" /></a></p>
<p>The Outcomes section will allow for manual free form entry of functional tests or you can integrate with a separate software (that we don’t officially have a name for yet…but we will just call it “MedG” for now).  The Functional Limitation Reporting section that will be added will allow for the therapist to manually enter codes, OR, if using “MedG” the therapist can simply just click on the “Suggest Codes” button to automatically calculate which G Codes to bill for. TheraOffice will recommend the current or discharge CPT codes and the CPT codes as well as the method and modifier.</p>
<p>If the clinic chooses to use “MedG,” the front desk staff will be able to initiate right from TheraOffice Scheduling which patient and tests need to be performed.  It will be included in the drop down options when right clicking on that particular patient’s appointment.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Schedule_MedG.jpg"><img title="Schedule_MedG" src="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Schedule_MedG.jpg" alt="" width="362" height="358" /></a></p>
<p>Another option other than having the front desk staff perform the tests, would be for the therapist to perform the tests themself.  In the Documentation module within TheraOffice, the therapist would click the “test with MedG” option that will be integrated into the top toolbar of the new Outcomes section.  The therapist would then be able to choose which tests to perform.</p>
<h2><strong>Step 3 – “MedG” (Not the Actual Name) App </strong></h2>
<p>“MedG” which is a mobile app for Windows 8 and iPad will allow patients to complete functional tests and then be imported into the new Outcomes section automatically.</p>
<p>After choosing the correct patient and test(s), the front desk staff or therapist would launch “MedG” on a Microsoft Surface or iPad.  If able, the patient will be handed the tablet and the assessment will begin – or the therapist could help the patient with the functional tests.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/oswestry.png"><img class="alignnone  wp-image-2694" title="oswestry" src="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/oswestry.png" alt="" width="619" height="318" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/stroke-im.png"><img class="alignnone  wp-image-2696" title="stroke im" src="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/stroke-im.png" alt="" width="623" height="308" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>When the patient completes the test, they will return the tablet back to the front desk staff or therapist.  The therapist can then review the test and clarify any questions that the patient might have.  This is a great opportunity for the Therapist to also check progress with the patient. The therapist will then be able to download the scores, tests, and test categories in new Outcomes section of Documentation.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/MedG-Download-Results.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2697" title="MedG Download Results" src="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/MedG-Download-Results.jpg" alt="" width="564" height="258" /></a></p>
<p>Finally – when in the Charges section of Documentation, any G Codes suggested in the Functional Limitation section will be pulled in much like they are for treatments.</p>
<p>We are excited to get “MedG” and the Functional Limitation Reporting updates out to you as soon as possible.  We understand how important it is for you to begin practicing on these reporting measures during this current testing period.</p>
<p>If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to leave your comments below!</p>
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		<title>Benefits of Using Practice Management Systems in Your PT Clinic</title>
		<link>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/pt-practice-management-systems/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/pt-practice-management-systems/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 28 Jan 2013 20:33:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>kboehmke</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rehabsoftware.com/?p=2609</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Practice management systems have quickly become a popular topic in the healthcare industry.  For those who have not implemented these systems into your practices yet, you better be ready to do so soon.  These systems embody all the many characteristics of a medical practice, and they will help to build a functioning system that will successfully care for patients and <span class="excerpt-more">&#8594;</span>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Practice management systems have quickly become a popular topic in the healthcare industry.  For those who have not implemented these systems into your practices yet, you better be ready to do so soon.  These systems embody all the many characteristics of a medical practice, and they will help to build a functioning system that will successfully care for patients and benefit the practice overall.</p>
<p>Starting with the schedule, most practice management systems will contain a basic scheduling module that record appointments.  With some of the limitations on care depending on the payer and the insurance plan, the front desk scheduling staff is now the main gatekeepers of who can be seen, when, and for how long.  Alerts such as authorizations, financial caps, and patient balances are just a few examples of features in TheraOffice Scheduling that make life easier for those scheduling patients.  Documents such as insurance cards, drivers licenses, intake forms, etc. can all be scanned directly into TheraOffice Scheduling eliminating paper, and organizing patient&#8217;s charts.  Eligibility for patient&#8217;s insurances can be also verified electronically via electronic verification without ever having to make a call to the insurance, and wait on hold.</p>
<p>Once an after thought of treating the patient or a &#8220;good practice&#8221; - documentation these days is<em> required</em> and a major component in practice management systems.  Typically, documentation modules of practice management systems can help to more efficiently document care more so than hand written notes.  As more payer requirements come into effect (such as PQRS and Functional Limitation Reporting for Medicare), the billing now needs to be driven from and evaluated by the therapists treating the patient, and not by billing staff.  Electronic documentation  has always been a sticking point for adoption of practice management systems because the therapists would have to adapt to the way the forms were setup.  Many practice management systems such as TheraOffice now have fully customizable documentation forms that can be customized to the practice, not the other way around.</p>
<p>Integration with the billing module of practice management systems can increase effeciency and reduce errors vs. hand entering or re-entering data from a therapist&#8217;s hand written notes or another system.  With TheraOffice Accounting, charges flow directly from Documentation after the therapist completes their notes in Accounting where they can be automatically checked for errors and then uploaded to a clearinghouse all electronically.  Payments from the insurance company can be directly downloaded electronically via electronic remittance advice (ERA&#8217;s) which can more quickly apply payments to patients visits than hand entering them from a paper EOB.  Finally, patient statements can be printed and mailed.  If the patient opts to pay the statement via a credit card, practice management systems that integrate with credit card gateways such as TheraOffice can directly apply that payment to the statement.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/22475025_thb.jpg"><img class="alignright  wp-image-2667" title="22475025_thb" src="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/22475025_thb.jpg" alt="" width="261" height="286" /></a></p>
<p>Besides saving you time and reducing expenses, another benefit to using practice management systems is that you are able to access your data even if you are not in the office (depending on what system you use).  If you have a web based practice management system such as TheraOffice Web, you can access your documents from the comfort of your own home.  With TheraOffice’s new Schedule Viewer App, you can access your schedule and patient contact information from your phone on the go.</p>
<p>Practice management systems are now becoming the new normal and seen widely in various physical therapy clinics across the US.  Medicare has had a major influence on this do to the financial penalties that will occur in the next few years if documenting and reporting is not done correctly.</p>
<p>Although the process of installing and implementing this software might seem frightening, what you do now will definitely pay off in the long run.  If you are looking to improve the overall stability and success of your clinic, a practice management system like TheraOffice is a must.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>PQRS&#8230;Your Questions Answered!</title>
		<link>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/how-to-update-and-use-theraoffice-for-pqrs-2013/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/how-to-update-and-use-theraoffice-for-pqrs-2013/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 Jan 2013 15:46:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>kboehmke</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rehabsoftware.com/?p=2227</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[PQRS…Your Questions Answered! Every day at Hands on Technology we receive multiple questions that are emailed, posted on our forum, or called in to our tech support team. The PQRS update for 2013 is still confusing to many people, so we thought we’d help you out by posting answers to many of the daily questions <span class="excerpt-more">&#8594;</span>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>PQRS…Your Questions Answered!<a href="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/question2.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-2261" title="question" src="http://www.rehabsoftware.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/question2-286x300.jpg" alt="" width="286" height="300" /></a></strong></p>
<p>Every day at Hands on Technology we receive multiple questions that are emailed, posted on our forum, or called in to our tech support team. The PQRS update for 2013 is still confusing to many people, so we thought we’d help you out by posting answers to many of the daily questions that we receive. You can also check out the two new videos we uploaded regarding how to update your TheraOffice programs to meet the new PQRS requirements.</p>
<p>For starters, if you are a TheraOffice user, it is important that you update your software with the new PQRS update. If you have not updated your software after January 11, 2013, you DO NOT have the most recent update. If you are confused on how to do this, the video will help show you. If you have any further questions please feel free to post them in the comment section on the blog, or find us on Facebook and Twitter and post your questions there and we will be happy to answer!</p>
<p><strong>PQRS Questions/Answers:</strong></p>
<p><strong>How do I update my software?</strong></p>
<p>If you go to TheraOffice Administrator, in the upper left hand side you will see an option that says “system.” After clicking on that, scroll to the bottom where it says “ad-in manager” then proceed to the option that says “download add-ins.” At the bottom of this page you will see a button for “other add-ins,” and after clicking on that, you will have the option to click “PQRS update 2013.” Highlight that and click install. Please view the video for further assistance on how to install the 2013 PQRS update.</p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/SbSHoNfLaXI" frameborder="0" width="1280" height="720"></iframe></p>
<p><strong>Is it too late to start?</strong></p>
<p>No. However, you would want to start as early as possible to ensure you meet the 50% reporting threshold. Starting now will also allow you to practice before the 2015 penalty, and will help you to improve the care of your patients. Why not get a head start?</p>
<p><strong>Is participating in PQRS mandatory?</strong></p>
<p>Participating in PQRS is not mandatory, however, beginning in 2015, health care professionals who do not successfully participate in PQRS will be subject to penalty payments. Eligible professionals who do not satisfactorily report on data quality measures between January 1, 2013 and December 31, 2013 will be subject to a 1.5% adjustment in their fee schedule amount in 2015, and 2.0% in 2016.</p>
<p><strong>Why Should I Participate?</strong></p>
<p>Those who participate in the PQRS program will help improve the care of the patients they serve through the evidence-based measures. Participating in PQRS now is a way to prepare for the future. Also, a .5% financial incentive is available to participating professionals.</p>
<p><strong>How many individual quality measures am I required to select?</strong></p>
<p>If you choose to report individual quality measures, you must select 3 quality measures. PTs are eligible to report on 8, so it is recommended that you pick at least 4 measures in order to increase your chances of successfully meeting the requirements of the program.</p>
<p><strong>How often do I need to report these measures?</strong></p>
<p>It varies for each individual measure. Here is a breakdown:</p>
<p><strong>Measure 126:</strong> Peripheral Neuropathy – Neurologic Evaluation This measure is to be reported a minimum of once per reporting period for patients with diabetes mellitus seen during the reporting period.</p>
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="213"><strong>Category</strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="213"><strong>Risk Profile</strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="213"><strong>Evaluation Frequency</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="213">0</td>
<td valign="top" width="213">Normal</td>
<td valign="top" width="213">Annually</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="213">1</td>
<td valign="top" width="213">Peripheral Neuropathy</td>
<td valign="top" width="213">Semi-Annually</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="213">2</td>
<td valign="top" width="213">Neuropathy, deformity,   and/or PAD</td>
<td valign="top" width="213">Quarterly</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="213">3</td>
<td valign="top" width="213">Previous ulcer or   amputation</td>
<td valign="top" width="213">Monthly to quarterly</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p><strong>Measure 127:</strong> Ulcer Prevention – Evaluation of Footwear This measure is to be reported a minimum of once per reporting period for patients with diabetes mellitus seen during the reporting period.</p>
<p><strong>Measure 128</strong>: BMI Screening and Follow-Up This measure is to be reported a minimum of once per reporting period for patients seen during the reporting period.</p>
<p><strong>Measure 130:</strong> Current Medications in the Medical Record This measure is to be reported at each visit during the 12 month reporting period.</p>
<p><strong>Measure 131</strong>: Pain Assessment Prior to Initiation of Patient Therapy and Follow-up This measure is to be reported for each visit occurring during the reporting period for patients seen during the reporting period.</p>
<p><strong>Measure 154:</strong> Falls Risk Assessment This measure is to be reported a minimum of once per reporting period for patients seen during the reporting period.</p>
<p><strong>Measure 155</strong>: Falls Plan of Care This measure is to be reported a minimum of once per reporting period for patients seen during the reporting period.</p>
<p><strong>Measure 182:</strong> Functional Outcome Assessment This measure is to be reported each visit indicating the appropriate numerator code; However, the assessment is required to be current as defined for patients seen during the reporting period. The intent of the measure is for the functional outcome assessment tool to be utilized at a minimum of every 30 days but reporting is required at each visit due to coding limitations.</p>
<p>For further assistance, you can refer to http://www.apta.org/pqrs/individualmeasures</p>
<p><strong>Do I need to report on both individual measures and the measures group for back pain?</strong></p>
<p>Although PTs are eligible to report on both the measures group and individual measures, you should select to participate either through the measures group or individual measures.</p>
<p><strong>Could I report on two of the four back pain measures associated with the measures group and one of the individual measures and qualify for the incentive?</strong></p>
<p>No, the four back pain measures must be reported together. Either select to participate via the measures group or the individual measures</p>
<p><strong>How do I do PQRS group codes  within TheraOffice?</strong></p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/MUnx63X2N5E" frameborder="0" width="1280" height="720"></iframe></p>
<p><strong></strong> <strong>Do I need to register to participate in PQRS?</strong></p>
<p>If you are a Medicare enrolled provider who will be participating as an individual, there is no “special” registration process.</p>
<p><strong>How do I determine which CPT code to use?</strong></p>
<p>For TheraOffice users, each measure will contain text explaining the question. By simply checking off which measures apply to the patient, TheraOffice will generate a list of CPT codes that will automatically be saved to your system.</p>
<p><strong>Is PQRS the same as functional limitation reporting?</strong></p>
<p>No, PQRS and functional limitation reporting are two different things. See our recently posted blog; “2013 Medicare Reporting and Requirements for Out Patient Physical Therapy,” for more information regarding these differences.</p>
<p><strong>How do I submit more than 12 codes on my claim form?</strong></p>
<p>If you have this question, please contact our tech support team, and they will be happy to answer it for you.</p>
<p><strong>How do I submit codes for OT/SLP disciplines?</strong></p>
<p>If you have this question, please contact our tech support team, and they will be happy to answer it for you.</p>
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		<title>CSM 2013! Here Comes Hands On Technology!</title>
		<link>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/csm-2013-here-comes-hands-on-technology-2/</link>
		<comments>http://www.rehabsoftware.com/csm-2013-here-comes-hands-on-technology-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 Jan 2013 16:44:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>kboehmke</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.rehabsoftware.com/?p=2219</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Combined Sections Meeting 2013 San Diego is best known for its sandy beaches, amazing weather, and for rehab therapists, CSM 2013. CSM (Combined Sections Meeting of the American Physical Therapy Association), will be held at the San Diego Convention Center from January 21st to the 24th. This is an exciting time for rehab therapists.  With nearly <span class="excerpt-more">&#8594;</span>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Combined Sections Meeting 2013</strong></p>
<p>San Diego is best known for its sandy beaches, amazing weather, and for rehab therapists, CSM 2013. CSM (Combined Sections Meeting of the American Physical Therapy Association), will be held at the San Diego Convention Center from January 21<sup>st</sup> to the 24<sup>th</sup>. This is an exciting time for rehab therapists.  With nearly 10,000 PTs from across the country, CSM is a great opportunity to introduce new products and reconnect with old friends and classmates.</p>
<p>At Hands On Technology, we are itching to get to San Diego to present and demonstrate quite a few new products.  We have been working very diligently on these products, with one goal in mind: helping your practice reach its optimum level, in the most cost efficient and stress-free way.</p>
<p><strong>At CSM we will be introducing the following:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>TheraOffice Web IPhone Scheduling Viewer application</li>
<li>Practice Vibe – a clinical planner and analyzer application</li>
<li>Functional Limitation Reporting and PQRS additions for 2013</li>
<li>New Functional Testing module</li>
<li>TheraOffice Web</li>
<li>TheraOffice On-Site</li>
</ul>
<p><strong></strong></p>
<p><strong>Come Join Us…</strong></p>
<p>At<strong> </strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">booth 809</span><strong> </strong>to get a firsthand look at the amazing new software and products that we will be exhibiting, and also receive a free tape measure that can be used in the clinics! <strong></strong></p>
<p>We look forward to seeing everyone there!</p>
<p>Stay informed with more information about these products by checking out or blog, Twitter, and Facebook page!</p>
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