To an outsider, usually the indication of an outstanding healthcare facility is one that excels at patient care. Indeed, this is the ultimate goal of any healthcare organization. Patient service, however, goes far beyond the skill and expertise of your physicians, nurses, lab technologists, and support staff.

If you are involved in any way with the administrative end of a healthcare facility, you are well aware that there are many factors that have to converge behind the scenes in order for a facility to operate effectively. Admissions, billing, registration, etc.—all have to be running effortlessly in order to serve patients effectively. A critical component to smooth operations and stellar patient service is the ability to locate, access, and disseminate information.

Efficient information storage, access, and retrieval are integral components to a healthcare facility—now more than ever. Recovery Audit Contractors (RACs) are mobilizing. And if your organization is unable to produce documentation upon request within the timeframe specified by CMS, you may be at risk for significant penalties. Failure to comply with auditors' requests will lead to determinations of overpayment. RAC audits can be expensive on several different levels.

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