New Software Streamlines Workflow for Partners in Care Nurses

Since June of this year, the nurses and support staff in VNSNY’s Partners in Care division have been using new documentation software that lets them draft and submit their clinical notes digitally, e-fax multiple physician orders instantly, and have their clients sign required paperwork by writing directly on a computer tablet touchscreen.

The new software system, a Sandata Technologies product called Santrax Point of Care (SPOC for short), allows nurses to access their assignment calendars directly as well, and alerts clerical staff when physician orders need to be signed. “SPOC will avoid potential errors in documentation, since staff members no longer have to track clinical visits manually on spreadsheets, and it will improve our efficiency,” says Joseph Perry, Director of Private Care Services at Partners in Care. “For example, our Clerical Coordinators previously had to print out and fax each physician order separately. Now, they can send out a whole list of orders electronically with the click of a mouse.”

In addition, notes Joseph, the system provides supervisors with real-time updates on all nursing visits, so they can confirm that documentation is being completed accurately and on time. The new tool is being used by the Partners in Care Managed Long-Term Care (MLTC) nursing staff, which manages the care for some 5,000 members of local MLTC plans who receive regular home health aide services from Partners in Care, and by the nurses who provide home nursing care for the division’s private-pay clients.

The Take-Away: The nurses and support staff of Partners in Care are using a new software program that lets them maintain patient records and manage their assignments more efficiently.