Image-based document management systems for medical records.

Using image scanning as a document capture mechanism at time of treatment or on day of discharge automates the medical record to achieve the larger objectives of simultaneous concurrent access to an electronic chart. This form of keyless document capture, although appearing labor intensive, is justified for improving business management and quality of care. Coupled with optical character recognition or barcode recognition for keyless data capture, medical information may be more easily made available for clinical research. Not merely a microfilm alternative, a medical record management system accelerates chart completion. Labor reduction is realized by eliminating filing and retrieval of active charts, loose sheet handling, photocopying, chart assembly, and chart location control. By reducing the reasons for chart completion delays, accelerated billing of Medicare accounts will occur, resulting in a reduction in receivables. Image-based document management systems accomplish the three things required of a senior manager in health care: (1) solve problems, (2) save money, and (3) make money.