While electronic medical records software is expected to help doctors increase their medical practice management, reduce errors and provide a more streamlined healthcare experience for patients, doctors may want to take preparations against certain side effects that experts say may arise.

While the transition to electronic medical records software is inevitable, many doctors have found a number of complaints about switching from their tried-and-true pen-and-paper method.

As of August 31, physicians and other health professionals have until November 1 to file for the hardship exemption that would help them avoid penalties for not meeting the previously put forth eprescribing requirements.

The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) released a letter on September 19 that featured advice for small and large healthcare providers that aren’t on track to comply with the HIPAA 5010 electronic transaction standards.

On September 21, the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) released a report that indicated that more healthcare facilities are preparing for the upcoming ICD-10 transition deadline.

On September 16, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released a new guide aimed at addressing the concerns of medical professionals about one of the upcoming transitions to more advanced software.

This September 12 to the 16 will mark the sixth annual healthcare IT week, a time when IT organizations, government leaders and private industry groups will gather in Washington, D.C. to discuss healthcare initiatives.

Last last week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a statement indicating it would hold a public meeting to discuss potential regulations for mobile medical apps.

To make the ICD-10 transition effectively, small practitioners may want to begin now, so they won’t be rushing to implement the provisions near the deadline.