New RN for a Home Health Agency

CatHair · May 21, 2014

What EMR (Electronic Medical Record) program does this agency use?

I have an agency-supplied Windows laptop (because the current software is Windows-only until they change to AXXESS), I also have an iPad of my own that I load up with scanned documents so I always have copies of 485s and other info for reference.

Mostly I use a pad of paper and take notes. I leave the laptop at home.

I hate using a laptop in a patient's home. I'd love to use the iPad as it allows me to have better eye contact with the patient and takes up a LOT less space, but it is not compatible with the current software my Agency uses. I was excited to hear they were moving to AXXESS so I can use my iPad in the field and Mac at home, but I will have to turn on the data plan to be able to use the iPad in the field to fill out Oasis forms.

Personally I would not trust what the recruiter says. I really doubt they have any idea of what works or does not. When I started at the Agency I work at they said I could use my iPad. They had no idea that the software they used was not compatible with Macs or iPads.

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · May 21, 2014

I would be very cautious using personal computers for work. There are very specific federal regulations regarding data security and then there are HIPAA regulations regarding data security and patient record confidentiality.

Even using a personal computer for business is highly regulated regarding business deductions and depreciation.

Are you going to be reimbursed for security software and internet usage? What happens if a family member or friend uses your computer and is curious? Is there sufficient data and password protection to protect confidential patient records? Are they going to access your computer to install the software and security software?

An agency that uses EMR software for charting and insurance billing needs sufficient software and computers as a cost of doing business. Basic net books are not that costly.

BORI-BSNRN, BSN, RN · May 21, 2014

@ yourbudy, I will check next week which EMR they use. The recruiter mentioned the name of the program but I forgot the name.

@ BeachyNurse you are absolutely right about Hippa regulations. I don't think the agency will pay for anything happens to my own devices. That's why I'm don't think it's a good idea to

Use my personal devices. I will speak with the agency administrator about this situation next week though. It's very uncomfortable.

Thank you for your responses.

akanini, MSN, RN · May 22, 2014

The agency is suppose to provide you with the devices due to HIPAA laws. I wouldn't feel comfortable using my personal device for work. The last 2 HHAs I've worked for provided me with a laptop and phone. I live in NY. I don't know if your state has different laws.

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · May 22, 2014

The agency is suppose to provide you with the devices due to HIPAA laws. I wouldn't feel comfortable using my personal device for work. The last 2 HHAs I've worked for provided me with a laptop and phone. I live in NY. I don't know if your state has different laws.

HIPAA and 21 CFR part 11 compliance are federal laws that apply to all states.

If you scan confidential information into your personal iPad you might want to check with your company P&P or corporate compliance to ensure you are not violating policy or confidentiality rules. Especially if ANYONE else uses your iPad.

Why should you be responsible to maintain security & software on your computer as well as maintenance of the computer?

The most I use my personal devices for in work are reference books such as nanda, care plan books, drug references etc.