Got Software You Like?
APA's Managed Care Help Line frequently receives calls from APA members asking for advice about what practice management software to buy. Although in the past OHSF staff members have surveyed software vendors about practice-management products and made this information available to members, there was no way to determine the products' quality or appropriateness. Since only those who have used—and often struggled with—software can provide information about how it functions, we're turning to you for help. If you are using a software program that you are satisfied with, please let us know by answering the following questions. You are welcome to share information on more than one program.
| 1. | What is the name of the program, and who manufactures it? | ||||
| 2. | How did you find it? Vendor? Cold call? Search service? | ||||
| 3. | Is the program written for PC/Windows or MAC? or both? | ||||
| 4. | Approximately how much did the program cost? Are there yearly maintenance fees? Hidden charges? Charges for add-ons? Do you pay for updates? | ||||
| 5. | How long have you been using the program? | ||||
| 6. | Is it suitable for a solo or group, small or large practice? | ||||
| 7. | Is the program intuitive? How long did it take for you or your staff to be comfortable using it? | ||||
| 8. | Did the manufacturer provide appropriate tech support? Is there a charge? | ||||
| 9. | What do you use the program for: billing, patient notes, scheduling, other? If you use multiple programs, are they integrated, and does information flow seamlessly between them? | ||||
| 10. | Is there anything you feel this program could provide but doesn't? | ||||
| 11. | Have you used a software product that you believe other psychiatrists should be warned against using? If so, please tell us what it is and why you found it unsatisfactory. | ||||
Please e-mail your responses to [email protected]. OHSF will compile the information and provide it to APA members when they ask for assistance with software selection.
