Business Technology
Setting the Software Table
This year's annual software roundup serves up not only the industry’s main courses when it comes to HME technology tools, but a range of additional IT offerings.
- By David Kopf
- Nov 01, 2014
Each year, we round up the major home medical equipment software systems to see how those systems are helping providers contend with current reimbursement, business and patient care trends. Those trends could range from retail sales, to inventory management, to contending with competitive bidding, to minimizing exposure to Medicare claims audits. And, each year we’ve come back with a significant amount of detailed information on those various systems’ capabilities.
But what we haven’t taken time to address are the various special software and technology products and services that are available to providers that don’t fall into the box of the major HME software offerings. While the all-encompassing business management systems that cover everything from billing to delivery management and everything in between are crucial to successfully steering an HME business, there are also highly targeted technology tools that serve very pin-pointed provider needs.
So this year, we’ve decided to change things up a bit. In addition to rounding up the major HME software systems, we’re also taking time to list the other systems and services available to providers to help them run and build their businesses. Consider this year’s slightly different take on our annual software roundup more of a guide or directory to help you identify other offerings you might not have considered.
In terms of categories, we’ve organized our list accordingly:
- HME Management Systems (these are the aforementioned business platforms that offer a wide range of features ranging from billing and claims to operations to inventory, etc.)
- Accounts Receivable
- Audits
- Billing/Claims
- Business Analytics
- Delivery Management/Route Planning
- DME Manufacturer Software (software provided by a DME maker to help manage the use of its products or patients using those products)
- Document Imaging/Management
- E-Commerce/Digital Marketing
- Inventory Mgmt/Asset Tracking
- Patient Management/Compliance
HME Management Systems
AR-Express
DIABCO – Healthcare Software Solutions, Inc.
www.ar-express.net
(800) 864-6210
Years company has been in business: 30
Type of system: A stand-alone system installed on-site
Programming languages and database environments: Microsoft Windows 7, Server 2008, MSQL 2008, .net, VB, VFP
Description: AR-Express features electronic billing for all primary and secondary insurances, including MSP. A table-driven set of business rules lets users define payor-specific validations of claims for the claim scrubbing process. Prior to claim processing, Medicare benefits can be confirmed using ME-First, DIABCO’s web-based eligibility service, which identifies HMOs, deductibles, and correct addresses. Other features include a report manager with more than 200 editable reports; customer contact features; a STEPS workflow to help users to keep track of documentation required before billing; and inventory and rental asset management tools.
Bonafide DME Software
Bonafide Management Systems
www.bonafide.com
(805) 777-7666
Years company has been in business: 33
Number of installed systems: 2500
Type of system: A hosted, web-based/SAAS system
Programming languages and database environments used by system: Java and MS SQL 2012
Description: Bonafide DME software includes inventory management, real-time tracking, just-in-time ordering, point of sale, real-time eligibility and remaining deductible features. It is fully integrated with current HCPCS codes, payors, shipping companies, vendors and manufacturers. Bonafide has spent more than a decade developing its software for the DME industry, and its offering comes free with the company’s billing service. The system is designed to be easy to use and implement, comprehensive and ICD-10 certified.
Brightree HME
Brightree
www.brightree.com
(844) 438-2783
Years company has been in business: 12
Number of installed systems: 3000
Type of system: A hosted, web-based/SAAS system
Programming languages and database environments used by system: Microsoft .Net and SQL Server
Description: Brightree’s cloud-based HME business management platform enables providers to automate and improve their businesses. From patient intake to collection, our integrated platform increases efficiency, streamlines business operations and helps you stay in compliance. The platform speeds claims processing, protects reimbursements and fosters interoperability with referral sources. Document management, electronic purchasing, patient communications for resupply and mobile delivery are extensions.
CPR+
Mediware Information Systems
www.mediware.com/home-care/hme
(888) Mediware
Years company has been in business: 34
Number of installed systems: 630+
Type of System: A stand-alone system installed on-site; A hosted system, but uses special client software.
Programming languages and database environments: Visual FoxPro and .NET Framework front-end with a Microsoft SQL backend
Description: CPR+ provides tools for real-time billing options to reduce their DSO and improve their cash flow, as well as locks in compliance with meeting the demands of accreditation organizations and healthcare laws. CPR+ allows access to data anywhere so providers can host software their way, along with the option of choosing your own vendors. CPR+ also allows for providers owning their data so they can see all information in various formats, including reporting and exporting the data to other systems!
Noble*Direct
Noble House
www.nobledirect.com
(800) 749-6700
Years company has been in business: 25
Type of system: A stand-alone system installed on-site
Programming languages and database environments used by system: Delphi and SQL database management
Description: Established in 1989, Noble House provides DME claim software management to the healthcare industry. Noble*Direct, its flagship billing program, is a full-featured DME management solution including electronic claim submission, document imaging, credit card processing, accounts receivable, inventory and claims management. Industry specific features such as real-time patient eligibility, patient scheduling, CMNs, custom physician orders are some key features that Noble*Direct offers to DME providers.
TeamDME! XL
TeamDME!
www.teamdme.com
(888) 832-6363
Years company has been in business: 25
Number of installed systems: 600
Type of system: A hosted, web-based/SAAS system
Programming languages and database environments used by system: Delphi, Firebird
Description: TeamDME! XL aims to help providers manage all areas of their businesses, from billing and collections, inventory management, sales and marketing, patient care and operations management. TeamDME! also helps providers isolate the data they need to know to better run their businesses. Other features include order processing; point of sale; recurring rentals; recurring sales; accounts receivable; CMN\PAR generation; electronic billing; inventory control; serialized equipment; equipment servicing; accounts payable; general ledger; electronic medical records; and patient eligibility.
SystemOne
QS/1
www.qs1.com
(800) 231-7776
Years company has been in business: 37
Number of installed systems: 669
Type of System: A stand-alone system installed on-site; a hosted system, but uses special client software
Programming languages and database environments: Assembler/Visual Basic
Description: QS/1’s SystemOne HME management software provides a comprehensive, affordable solution for greater accountability and efficiency in billing, documentation, reporting, compliance and inventory management. Available as a web-based or installed solution, SystemOne speeds claims and simplifies tasks, such as order entry and Medicare documentation, while giving providers control of accounts receivable, sales and rental inventory. Advanced modules, including IIAS/SIGIS-certified HME Point-of-Sale and the industry’s only integrated HME IVR, can be added as needed. SystemOne integrates with QS/1’s pharmacy management systems.
TIMS Software
Computers Unlimited
www.timssoftware.com/medical
406-255-9500
Years company has been in business: 36
Type of system: A stand-alone system installed on-site; or a hosted, web-based/SAAS system
Programming languages and database environments used by system: Microsoft .Net using SQL
Description: TIMS Software, developed by Computers Unlimited, delivers an all-in-one solution. TIMS offers everything from intake & inventory management to revenue cycle operations & financial reporting. Other powerful features include: billing rules & fee schedules, integrated workflow, documentation, rental & serial-tracked equipment, electronic claims validation, reimbursement, denial management, rental equipment billing, barcoding, EDI, drop shipping, document imaging, business intelligence & APIs.
Accounts Receivable
CollectPlus
A/R Allegiance Group LLC
www.arallegiance.com
(913) 338-4798 x202
Years company has been in business: 10
Number of installed systems: 250
Type of system: A hosted, web-based/SAAS system
Programming languages and database environments used by system: Database - SQL server 2008 Standard Edition Programing language - .Net framework 2.0 and above, C#.net, VB.net, Visual basic 6.0, SSIS packages, SSRS reports
Description: The COLLECTPlus system is a comprehensive software solution that uses every method available to reach private-pay customers — including phone calls, text messages, email and online media — and motivates those customers to quickly settle their accounts.
Audits
DME Face-to-Face Evaluations and Documentation for PMD, Respiratory and General DME
DMEevalumate.com
www.dmeevalumate.com
(800) 986-9368
Years company has been in business: 5
Number of installed systems: 771
Type of system: A hosted, web-based/SAAS system
Programming languages and database environments used by system: web-based
Description: DMEevalumate.com is a HIPAA compliant online documentation tool, introduced by DME providers, and used by practitioners during patient face-to-face exams for DME, including power mobility, respiratory and other frequently vended items: manual wheelchairs, canes, walkers, hospital beds, support surfaces, commodes, urological and diabetic supplies. DMEevalumate.com ensures that relevant questions are addressed during a F2F exam, and that accurate paperwork documenting medical necessity is generated in the preferred format Medicare requires.
iCodeConnect
3B Medical, Inc.
www.iCodeConnect.com
(863) 226-6285
Years company has been in business: 5
Type of system: A hosted, web-based/SAAS system; or Cloud Based
Programming languages and database environments used by system: iCodeConnect utilizes MySQL running on Linux servers
Description: iCodeConnect is a HIPAA-compliant cloud based patient management system designed to work with 3B’s line of PAP devices. iCodeConnect allows for automated remote retrieval of compliance and efficacy data, intuitive and easy to use graphical interface, facilitates cooperation between all links of the patient management team, from clinician, DME to physician. iCodeConnect is absolutely free, with no hidden fees or costs.
Billing/Claims
HDMS
Universal Software Solutions, Inc.
www.universalss.com
(810) 653-5000
Years company has been in business: 14
Number of installed systems: 357
Type of system: A stand-alone system installed on-site; A hosted, web-based/SAAS system; and a hosted system that uses special client software.
Programming languages and database environments used by system: Microsoft Environments with a SQL Server database engine, structured as a multi-tier application with a dedicated business layer allowing scalability.
Description: HDMS is a complete patient management system providing the necessary operational functionality required for home healthcare providers. Estimates and the customer service intake processes start the patient care process using a built-in workflow engine through the entire delivery and billing cycle. Optional integrations from HDMS Mobile allow for real-time connectivity with smart devices directly into the HDMS database and application for mobile employees that need immediate and accurate information as it changes. Billing and accounts receivable, including compliance and auditing are in the basic package.
Patient Alerts for Equipment Recovery
HME Recovery
www.hmerecovery.com
(202) 480-2929
Years company has been in business: 2
Type of system: A hosted, web-based/SAAS system
Programming languages and database environments used by system: Secure Cloud-based SASS Platform
Description: HME Recovery helps home medical equipment providers recover lost equipment by notifying you earlier that your patients have passed away. Most multi-site providers can save between $1,000 to $10,000 per week. HME Recovery’s secure, cloud-based solution is designed for easy use and works with providers’ insurance billing software. By alerting HMEs earlier to their patient’s passing, they can act more quickly to recover equipment and update insurance billing.
Reimbursement PRO
RemitDATA
www.remitdata.com
(866) 885-2974
Years company has been in business: 14
Type of system: A hosted, web-based/SAAS system
Programming languages and database environments used by system: Java, JavaScript, Microsoft SQL Server
Description: Reduce your cost of collections and simplify the reimbursement and reconciliation process with reimbursement and utilization reports, analysis and workflow tools. Equipped to work in conjunction with any practice management or billing system, Reimbursement PRO provides an executive dashboard overview, custom reporting, denial management and appeal forms.
Patient Portal
Strategic AR
www.expertsingetpaid.com
(913) 744-3360
Years company has been in business: 12
Number of installed systems: 500
Type of system: A hosted, web-based/SAAS system
Programming languages and database environments used by system: SQL Server, ASP .NET 4.0
Description: Strategic AR’s web-based billing solution, Patient Portal, offers providers a platform that gives their patients access to pay their bills, manage their account, and set up AutoPAY and eDelivery exclusively online. Providers benefit from the Patient Portal and the 100 percent coverage AutoPAY provides by ensuring patient payments, rather than being left to wonder if and when their patients will pay. By combining the Patient Portal and Strategic AR’s invoice mailing, billing staff can focus efforts on higher pay-off activities.
Business Analytics
TITAN
RemitDATA
www.remitdata.com
(866) 885-2974
Years company has been in business: 14
Type of system: A hosted, web-based/SAAS system
Programming languages and database environments used by system: .NET/C#, JavaScript, Microsoft SQL Server
Description: TITAN is a business intelligence solution designed to provide automated, actionable performance metrics enhanced with near real-time comparative analytics for credible peer-to-peer benchmarking for tracking, measuring and managing key operational and financial measures. Track denials to improve your revenue cycle and increase cash flow. Measure and analyze billing and collection trends to increase profitability. Manage and streamline processes for improved efficiencies and faster reimbursement.
Delivery Management/Route Planning
FleetTraks and MileageTraks
On-Board Communications
www.onboardcommunications.com
(724) 934-1700
Years company has been in business: 14
Type of system: A hosted, web-based/SAAS system; and a web based system with mobile devices
Programming languages and database environments used by system: Ob-Board uses Microsoft software technologies via their Visual Studio development system. Backend and website server software is written in C#, while the browser client software is javascript. The database technology is Microsoft SQL Server.
Description: The On-Board Communications system consists of a vehicle mounted device or a portable device for mileage reimbursement. The data reports back to providers via a web-based system. HME providers realize an increase in productivity, decrease in miles traveled and accurate mileage reimbursement.
DME Manufacturer Software
InfoSmart Web
Fisher& Paykel Healthcare
www.fpinfosmart.com
(877) 707-5454, ext. 4
Years company has been in business: 44
Type of system: A hosted, web-based/SAAS system
Programming languages and database environments used by system: HTML and JavaScript.
Description: F&P InfoSmart Web is a cloud-based sleep data management solution, supported by a range of flexible options for transmitting CPAP usage data: InfoGSM modems, InfoUSB, kiosks and InfoView. An instant overview of patient compliance allows visual identification of how patients are tracking on a real-time dashboard. Compliance based color-coding helps time management, by indicating where early intervention is necessary. A single mouse click on a patient’s report link can produce a compliance report.
Document Imaging/Management
WebScan PRO
Company: RemitDATA
www.remitdata.com
(866) 885-2974
Years company has been in business: 14
Type of system: A hosted, web-based/SAAS system
Programming languages and database environments used by system: Java, JavaScript, Microsoft SQL Server
Description: WebScan PRO is a HIPAA-secure, SaaS-based document management solution that is designed to improve business processes and increase profitability by reducing document retrieval time through the use of the latest in optical character recognition (OCR)-based technology with enhanced image pre-processing and improved recognition accuracy to identify, index and file all documents for immediate online use.
This article originally appeared in the November 2014 issue of HME Business.