While artificial intelligence typically claims the spotlight at healthcare conferences nationwide, a recent poll by the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) reveals a contrasting trend among medical groups. In a survey of its members, the MGMA found that the top technology concern is not AI but rather the usability of electronic health records (EHR).
According to the MGMA Stat poll conducted this month, over one-third (35%) of respondents expressed a primary focus on optimizing their electronic health records. The key issues highlighted include the desire to enhance EHR interoperability with other health systems and practices.
Physicians and medical groups are facing challenges and expressing frustration with their electronic health record systems, citing administrative burdens as a significant contributor to burnout and stress. The survey identified the need to streamline communications with patients as the second most pressing tech-related issue, with 26% seeking improved solutions for patient access and communications.
Respondents also emphasized the importance of reducing staff time spent on tasks such as handling phone calls, scheduling patient appointments, and managing patient portals. To address these concerns, medical groups expressed an interest in investing in digital front doors, enabling patients to schedule appointments independently and, in turn, reducing appointment no-shows.
Billing systems emerged as another area of focus, with more than one in five (21%) expressing a desire to bring in more technology. Respondents expressed a need to shift some revenue cycle management work from staff to automated billing and processing. This shift aims to achieve more timely payments and leverage digital tools for insights into the revenue cycle. Medical practices have reported challenges in filling positions to handle billing tasks.
Interestingly, despite AI's prominence in healthcare discussions, it ranked fourth among medical groups' technical issues in the poll. Only 13% of respondents identified artificial intelligence as their top technological priority. Previous MGMA surveys have indicated that the majority of medical groups are not using AI regularly, with a September poll finding that 21% have added or expanded their use of AI tools.
While healthcare leaders tout AI's potential to revolutionize patient care, caution is advised, especially in diagnosis. Researchers have highlighted concerns about racial bias in AI tools, emphasizing the need for careful consideration and scrutiny in their implementation.