As you keep a close watch on the evolving healthcare industry, have confidence that Henry Schein MicroMD is focused on adapting our software to meet the industry’s ever-changing requirements. We understand that providers are facing many changes related to healthcare information technology (HIT), billing and coding. We want you to know that we’ve been keeping in touch with the industry and making the appropriate changes to your MicroMD software to prepare you for these changes. Our core focus remains consistent. We continue to provide features to help providers meet regulatory requirements as part of our standard MicroMD releases and keep our clients informed of the releases that they will need to use to achieve compliance.
We’re here to help providers take advantage of new HIT incentives and support their transition to 5010 electronic claims submission and ICD-10 coding requirements. As previous versions of our MicroMD PM + EMR software were not programmed to accommodate these new unanticipated opportunities and regulations, we’re reaching out to clients to prepare them to upgrade to a current software version.
While we realize that this communication is lengthy, it serves an important purpose; to inform you of future upgrade requirements and share the benefits of upgrading today. We urge you to take the time to read this in its entirety and to contact Client Support to schedule an “Upgrade Readiness Check”. Call 330-758-8832 x 194 or e-mail micromd.upgrade@henryschein.com
THE UPSIDE OF UPGRADES
Use the latest functionality
We listen to our clients to program MicroMD software with the most requested functionality. MicroMD PM Version 7.1 now includes a claims rule manager, claims scrubbing and OCR-card scanning that can streamline patient registration processes. Click here to view all the current MicroMD PM features. MicroMD EMR Version 7.1 now features new templates, mail order e-Prescribing, electronically-traced signature capture, connectivity for new devices and a patient monitor chart view. Click here to view all the current MicroMD EMR features. If you’re using a prior version of MicroMD software, you’re not receiving the full benefits of your investment in your Software Maintenance Agreement and missing out on current MicroMD features.
Meet ANSI 5010 and ICD-10 requirements
Second, providers will be required to start submitting electronic claims in the new 5010 format on January 1, 2012. And, new ICD-10 coding will be required by October 1, 2013. We’re currently programming new versions of MicroMD PM + EMR that will offer the required 5010 and ICD-10 functionality. Additionally, as EDI clearinghouses will play an important role in helping providers make a smooth transition to the new 5010 format, we’re also introducing preferred clearinghouses to offer you choice with claims, remittance, claim status and eligibility solutions in MicroMD PM Version 7.5. Upgrading to MicroMD PM Version 7.1 is the first step in preparing your practice to meet the 5010 claims regulations before the January 1, 2012 deadline. Our support staff will guide your organization through the use of new features, the upgrade process, hardware requirements and our latest clearinghouse options.
Secure CMS EHR Incentive Program reimbursement
Eligible providers interested in participating in one of the CMS EHR Incentive Programs will be required to “meaningfully use” an ONC-certified EMR. Early adopters have the opportunity to earn maximum reimbursement by “meaningfully using” a certified EMR in 2011 or 2012. MicroMD EMR Version 7.5 is certified and targeted for release on June 30, 2011. In the meantime, eligible providers can improve their chances of securing maximum reimbursement by upgrading today to the current version of MicroMD EMR. An upgrade to MicroMD EMR Version 7.1 will allow providers and staff to start training on over 80% of the meaningful use functionality they’ll be required to demonstrate for reimbursement and make for an easier transition to MicroMD EMR Version 7.5 when it’s released.
Support sunset for outdated versions
Finally, we’ve supported multiple, outdated versions of MicroMD software. While we understand that there may be a learning curve associated with upgrading to a new version, we need to balance that with the highest priority needs of our clients, currently regulatory compliance and taking advantage of incentive reimbursements. Continuing to support multiple software versions diverts our time and attention from our core focus of supporting critical initiatives. With that said, effective September 30, 2011, we’ll sunset support for all MicroMD PM + EMR software versions prior to 7.1. Upgrading to a MicroMD Version 7 platform will ensure that you receive the highest level of support outlined in your Software Maintenance Agreement and keep your practice close to the available new features that current versions of MicroMD will offer.
PREPARE NOW FOR YOUR UPGRADE
Upgrades for MicroMD software are included as part of your current Software Maintenance Agreement. Clients upgrading to Version 7.1 for the first time must invest in Microsoft SQL database licenses, along with evaluating the age and compatibility of their hardware and operating system, which may result in third party costs. Our trusted experts will help guide your decisions, including discussing new options to host your software and/or Henry Schein Financial Services to help fund the addition of any new products or services to support your upgrade.
Our recommendation is to schedule your upgrade to the newest version of MicroMD PM + EMR software sooner rather than later. We’re getting the word out today to allow you time to plan your upgrade at a convenient time and so that you can join the growing number of clients using new functionality, taking advantage of incentive opportunities and meeting the upcoming 5010 requirements. We’re currently working with clients to conduct “Upgrade Readiness Checks”, during which we’ll work with you to assess current hardware and discuss options of how you’d like to continue managing your MicroMD software, including our new MicroMD Hosted versions.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TODAY?
Start by scheduling your “Upgrade Readiness Check” with Client Support. Call 330-758-8832 x 194 or e-mail micromd.upgrade@henryschein.com
WHAT'S NEXT?
In the coming months, expect details on the following:
- The release of ONC certified Micro MD EMR Version 7.5, including new functionality, services and training programs to help providers achieve meaningful use
- Information on the clearinghouse evaluation and selection to help ease the transition to 5010
- How MicroMD PM upgrades will help you to meet 5010 and prepare for future ICD-10 requirements
We appreciate the opportunity to communicate our focus and look forward to partnering with you through this new era of healthcare automation.