Using the latest technology, Park Nicollet is streamlining record keeping and communications. “Early on, Park Nicollet invested in electronic medical records and it’s paying off — for patients and providers,” says Michele Rutledge, MD, a family medicine doctor with Park Nicollet Clinic—Chanhassen.

Electronic charts provide convenience
“Electronic charts provide the latest patient information from any Park Nicollet location — clinic, hospital or urgent care — all in one chart. No more bulky paper files,” Dr. Rutledge explains. “We can easily find patient records while at the clinic or hospital. The charts also include patients’ prescriptions, so if questions come up after-hours, we can see exactly which medications patients are using.”

Patients can access parts of their medical record through Patient Online® (POL), which enhances communication between Park Nicollet care teams and patients. When patients sign up for it, they can access their immunization records, lab results and even their latest blood pressure readings. It also allows doctors and patients to communicate through the secured POL Web site — another timesaving benefit.

Digital imaging readily available
“All imaging, whether performed in the hospital or our clinics, is done digitally,” Dr. Rutledge adds. “X-rays are available for review almost immediately after they are taken. I can send patients down the hall to radiology, and by the time they are back, I can have their X-rays pulled up on the exam-room computer.” Also, two or more doctors can consult on images simultaneously from their own computers.

Electronic prescriptions improve accuracy
“One of my favorite benefits is our online prescriptions,” Dr. Rutledge says. “I can enter a prescription on the digital chart, then fax an electronic copy directly to a Pharmacy @ Park Nicollet location or community pharmacy. The format is more legible, plus it records all the patients’ prescriptions, their refills and who prescribed them.” Electronic prescriptions save patients’ time, because by the time they are done seeing me, their prescription already has been sent to our Pharmacy @ Park Nicollet to be filled.

Precious minutes added to busy days
“Some Park Nicollet clinics have patient locators to alert doctors when patients have arrived and are ready for their appointments,” Dr. Rutledge continues. “Now, rather than poking my head outside my office to see if patients are ready, I know exactly when patients are ready for me. In the meantime, I can focus on answering e-mails or returning patient phone calls. It also speeds things up for patients. While in the exam room, I can alert nurses when patients need immunizations or blood drawn for lab work.”

Technology continues to advance at Park Nicollet. “Patients now can request appointments online for non-urgent needs in many departments through our POL service. The technology has made great improvements in all our lives,” Dr. Rutledge adds.

For help finding a Park Nicollet doctor, call Health Directions at 952-993-5500 or visit parknicollet.com.