The Doctor’s Desk Reference (DSR) is the single most important piece of documentation for any doctor. This is the document that a patient refers to when asking for a diagnosis or when requesting a specialist’s advice and service. The DSR contains the complete information that a doctor needs in order to make an accurate diagnosis, as well as information to support the diagnosis. Although there are many different opinions about how much time should be spent on these documents, it is important that all practitioners follow the same guidelines when compiling the DSR.
In order for a doctor to compile the DSR, it should first be decided what format should be used. Currently, there are several formats in use including PPT, SOAP and HTML. All have their own benefits and drawbacks. Some doctors prefer to have a PPT format, as it is the least complicated, while others feel that SOAP and HTML are more suited for their situation.
Once this decision has been made, a doctor must then choose which DDSR should be submitted to the insurance companies. Currently, three formats are available: electronic, paper and file format. Each of these formats has their advantages and disadvantages. It is important that each doctor considers the pros and cons of each format before making their final decision. Some doctors also feel that they already have the information needed to submit electronic forms and do not feel that it is necessary to spend the extra time and money on paper forms.
Doctors have the option to outsource the Doc Secretariat to another physician office, or they can do the entire process themselves. Whichever route a doctor takes, they need to carefully consider the benefits and drawbacks of each option. The most obvious benefit is that the doctor doesn’t have to physically collect the DSR. However, if the doc Secretariat is attached to the medical staff of the practice instead of being located in a separate location, doctors have to worry about if they have access to the DSR when they are in their office. This can be a hassle, especially if a patient needs treatment at two or more locations.
Electronic documents are also more convenient for doctors and patients. Not only are these types of documents easier to use for both parties, but they are also more accurate. However, doctors need to be careful about how many pages are allowed to be stored on each disc, as well as the software used to convert the documents into the desired format. Paper forms may also be kept on hand, in case certain information needs to be entered repeatedly.
Another aspect of this type of service is what type of documentation will be accepted for each type of service. Currently, all types of healthcare documentation, such as X-rays, prescriptions, discharge instructions and medical histories are accepted. The doc Secretariat must work through the appropriate channels to ensure that all of the required documentation is received and properly logged. This is important for the accuracy of the data entry system. Once the data is entered correctly, then it can be reviewed by the doctor or care provider for any errors.
