March 02, 2010

New Patient-Focused Workflow Kiosk Solution

Imaging Practices - .. a win for everyone involved -- patients love the automation, referring physicians tell us that we look very leading edge and our staff is able to focus on our patient's clinical experience rather than routine tasks...

MILWAUKEE, Mar 01, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- In an effort to leverage health information exchange technology for consumers, Merge Healthcare (MRGE 2.01, +0.01, +0.25%) today announced the introduction of the Merge Patient Kiosk(TM) and the successful deployment of this new patient engagement tool in several imaging centers in the U.S. Combining the best of kiosk technologies already present in other industries and the specific requirements of healthcare consumers, the Merge solution creates a new way for imaging practices to stay connected to their customers.

"The kiosks have definitely made a positive impact in our clinics," says Matt Dewey, CIO of Zwanger-Pesiri Radiology in Long Island, New York. "Busy consumers who prefer user-friendly, automated technology are pleased that they now have the choice to complete their check-in with our kiosk. Unlike other kiosks, this system has the ability to connect to an avatar-based live agent, who can guide our patients through the check-in process when they need some assistance. Moving forward, I see the Merge Patient Kiosk as an important tool for keeping patients loyal to our centers."

The unique avatar-based Merge Patient Kiosk provides assistance from a professional who can see the person and talk directly to her to answer any questions, within a private environment. Integrated with Merge's Fusion RIS(TM), the system can set the appropriate alerts, update a patients' status and scan documents, such as a driver's license and insurance card, all within the normal workflow of a healthcare enterprises operation. This new product will be on display at the upcoming HIMSS show, March 1 -- 3, 2010 in Atlanta, Georgia. A special presentation on the Merge Patient Kiosk will take place on Tuesday, March 2, 2010, at 4:30 PM ET in booth #2759.

"Our front office staff wondered how the kiosk would impact them and our patients at first," says Marilyn Lester, Administrator of UT Imaging in Houston, Texas. "But, within a couple of days, we quickly realized its true value. It's just such a win for everyone involved -- patients love the automation, referring physicians tell us that we look very leading edge and our staff is able to focus on our patient's clinical experience rather than routine tasks."

"We are very pleased with the launch of this innovative new product line," says Justin Dearborn, Merge Healthcare CEO. "We've had excellent dialogue with our imaging professional customers and their patients; and the result is a well designed solution that benefits everyone involved in an imaging exam."

Merge Healthcare Incorporated develops solutions that automate healthcare data and diagnostic workflow to enable a better electronic record of the patient experience, and to enhance product development for health IT, device and pharmaceutical companies. Merge products, ranging from standards-based development toolkits to sophisticated clinical applications, have been used by healthcare providers, vendors and researchers worldwide for over 20 years. Additional information can be found at www.merge.com.

The matters discussed in this news release may include forward-looking statements, which could involve a number of risks and uncertainties. When used in this press release, the words "will", "believes", "intends", "anticipates", "expects" and similar expressions, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Actual results could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, such forward-looking statements. Except as expressly required by the federal securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update such factors or to publicly announce the results of any of the forward-looking statements.

SOURCE: Merge Healthcare Incorporated


Media Contact:
Merge Healthcare
Julie Pekarek, 414-977-4254
Chief Marketing Officer
[email protected]

Merge Healthcare Introduces New Patient-Focused Workflow Solution - MarketWatch

Posted by staff at March 2, 2010 10:55 AM