On-line charging = increased revenue

Although the new ED charge system is not perfect, it has resulted in improved charging for services delivered; this increase in correct charges has more than offset the resources to develop the entire tracking system project within 1 year. This is one example in which computerization paid for itself, which should help ED managers justify computerization of their departments. It is hoped that more effective charge systems will occur as a component of the computerized patient record in which the patient charge is calculated on the basis of preset formulas for the amount of resources utilized, thus eliminating subjectivity in charging. With the capture of all services rendered, evaluation of practice patterns and outcomes would allow the ED staff to identify effective treatment regimens. Hopefully, unnecessary tests or treatments can be eliminated to promote a decrease in resource utilization and costs without compromising quality patient care.