; A&L Computer Software - E-Med Kit

E-Med Kit

E-Med Kit



The A&L Resource Centre and E-Med-Kit Fact Sheet

The information in the Resource Centre is produced by A&L Computer Software Ltd.

A&L Computer Software - At A Glance

A&L is the largest supplier of medical software in Ontario. Established in 1982, A&L has extensive experience in developing and implementing complete software and hardware solutions and has particular expertise in the health care field. Whether niche medical software or broad-base technology demands, A&L understands the nuances of the high-tech market.

The "e-MED" Kit

A&L created the "e-MED" kit in response to a recognized need. It’s our friendly, low-tech approach to resolving your high-tech problems! It’s designed to help Ontario doctors and other health care providers make decisions about current software and hardware requirements.

Your new V03 software and Y2K-ready system must be installed by July 18, 1999 in order to be paid by OHIP. To take advantage of the Federal Government tax incentive program, Y2K-compliant hardware must be installed by June 30, 1999. These are real deadlines and the clock is ticking!

The "e-MED" tips will show you why your particular work activities directly influence your software and system requirements. Your computer system is custom-tailored for ease of use and to meet your unique medical practice needs.

Use the following questions to evaluate your current and future needs. Make a list of the business and clinical practice issues you want to address before you contact a supplier.

If you have unanswered questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll do our best to help. Our phone and fax numbers and e-mail Link-up are at the end of this document. It’s an opportunity to learn more about your system.

EIGHT KEY QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER

  1. Where do I start?

    • Talk to your colleagues. Find out how they are managing the situation.

    • Consult the Ontario Medical Association (OMA). The Practice Advisory Services department conducts Practice Management seminars and has compiled information on OHIP billing changes and Y2K regulations.

    • Contact your current software vendor. If the vendor is no longer in business, the software will have to be replaced.

    • Develop a plan. There are four issues to consider – installation of Y2K-ready hardware, software replacement/upgrades, staff training and budget requirements.

    • Act Now! OHIP claims must be submitted in the new V03 format by July 18, 1999. To be eligible for the Revenue Canada small business, Y2K tax-relief incentive programs, system installations must be completed by June 30, 1999

    • Check with your billing vendor regarding conversion service charges. Determine your tax position – it may be advantageous to install your own equipment.

 

  1. How can I locate a medical software vendor?

    • The OMA Practice Advisory Services department has a list of medical software vendors and will help you address your particular needs. The Association is impartial and does not endorse specific commercial products or services.

  1. How can I quantify the services I am looking for?

    • Look for proven dependability, efficient service and competitive prices.

    • Consult a practice management consultant and/or the OMA.

    • Confirm the vendor’s medical software business and service record in Ontario. Compare the percentage of medical sales and services provided by the company in Ontario with the percentage of revenue generated in other areas of the business.

    • Ensure the vendor provides after sales services, including on-site technical services and software support.

    • Compare the value of investing in a complete package versus the cost of purchasing the hardware and software separately.

    • Be Cautious! Avoid the software specials and "just in time" solutions. If they exist, they are probably too good to be true!!

4. What type of system should I purchase?

    • Your computer system is simply a tool. Information networks can be built with electronic link-ups to suit your particular needs.

    • First of all, define the precise information technology services required in your practice.

    • Identify the number of users who need to access the system.

    • Make certain a system has a network capability to permit future expansion.

5. What kind of computer hardware do I need?

    • Ensure the system is Y2K-compliant.

    • A minimal system should be equipped with a PentiumÒ II processor, 64 MB RAM (megabytes of memory), CD- ROM drive, built-in modem, a method for backing up files, and colour monitor. The other options are personal preferences.

    • Ensure the manufacturer provides replacement parts and on-site technical services on the next business day.

    • Decide if there is a requirement for remote access to the system. If you practice in several different locations and also complete work home, you may require multi-site access to the system.

    • A computer notebook offers greater flexibility than a desktop model. Consider purchasing a notebook if you work at home, travel extensively and use computer-generated slides for lecture presentations.

6. Does the vendor complete telephone network connections?

    • A supplier will identify the specific connections required and may install cable connections, but the telephone company is responsible for installing up-to-date wiring for data transmission/communications.

    • Reassess the network connection capabilities in your office. Make certain the office telephone system is equipped for modem connections.

    • Check your lease to ensure the contractor has supplied all of the electrical and telecommunications outlets specified in the contract.

7. How much will a new system cost?

    • We can’t speak for other companies. The cost of A&L systems are based on the options required and whether independent workstations are used or a network system is installed.

    • The average cost of hardware is approximately $2,000 per unit. Network solutions are individually priced.

    • The average cost of software, including six hours of on-site training is about $1,200. A&L’s yearly software subscription fee is approximately $700. Software upgrades are included in the subscription fee.

    • Software data conversion is individually priced.

  1. What benchmarks should I use to plan future technology requirements?

    • Establish a technology budget as part of your annual business plan.

    • Apply the same criteria you used to assess your current situation. Changes in the physical office environment may require operating system modifications.

    • Confirm current telecommunications requirements and conduct an inventory of telephone equipment capabilities prior to leasing or purchasing new office space.

    • Consider your career plans. If you intend to retire or sell your practice or return to school within a short time, a cost-efficient IT system may be a practice asset.

    • List personal and business practice preferences. Options include -

    • Current accounting, patient record keeping and appointment scheduling preferences.

    • Future research plans

    • CME distance-learning opportunities

    • Electronic Data Transfer of OHIP claims and Health Card Validation

    • Other software programs, including word processing requirements

    • Voice recognition technology

    • Internet communication capabilities.

Contact Us

E-mail – ayuan@anl.com
Phone – 905-886-8066
Fax – 905-886-6617

back