When many EMRs were originally designed, charge capture and coding was not a major design objective. As an ancillary feature and benefit of EMRs—untested in the real world—that EMRs could replace the superbill began to appear in sales presentations. 

Many EMR demonstrations concluded with the following promise, “…and then once the exam is over, you can electronically send the charge data to your PM system for automatic posting.” Since an EMR’s ability to capture and properly code charges is not a primary focus in the selection process, it receives very little scrutiny by most EMR selection teams. 

Because properly capturing and coding an encounter is an integral part of every patient visit, this lack of scrutiny during the EMR selection process can create costly problems during implementation—gaps in workflow and productivity. Taking a step forward by automating your clinical processes should not force you to take a step backward with regards to your administrative and financial processes.  “Mind the EMR Gap” now or pay the price later!