News 10/31/13

CareCloud will integrate ZocDoc’s appointment booking app into its platform, allowing patients to book appointments online with CareCloud providers via ZocDoc.

WebMD jumps into the patient engagement space with the acquisition of Avado, a developer of patient relationship technologies. Avado offers an EMR-agnostic patient portal that includes messaging, reminders, and appointment scheduling tools.

Rush Health (IL) endorses the eClinicalWorks EHR solution for its 300 affiliated private physician members.

SuccessEHS will integrate the DataMotion Direct secure messaging service into its EHR platform.

Vitera announces the availability of Intergy Mobile 2.0 in the Apple Store.

Physicians continue to be uncertain about how the ACA rollout will impact their workloads or wallets, according to a USA Today news story.  Physicians point to the need for increased efficiencies and a shifting of non-clinical tasks to administrative staff.  AAFP president Reid Blackwelder, MD adds that medical teams need to learn how to “work smarter, not harder” and use electronic systems better.

I am looking for a few volunteers from HIT vendors to participate in a Q&A for HIStalk Practice. Specifically I would like a few sales types (or even former salespeople), as well as implementation and training experts that work with physician offices. I can’t guarantee that your few minutes of  time will result in fame and fortune, but be assured I would be very grateful. Email me for details.

As you get ready for your Halloween office party or a night of treat or tricking with the kids, here are a few Halloween health hazards you may want to avoid – unless you work in a hospital or practice with medical staff close by. Crazy-colored contact lens that may damage eyes are a top concern, as are skin-irritating makeup, pumpkin-carving injuries, and general candy overload. Personally I plan to play it safe and stick with my stand-by Wicked Witch costume and limit my evening intake to chocolate and a side of wine.

Send Inga treats or emails.