Atlas has a built-in Instant Messaging system to help facilitate communication between the Front Desk and Providers. Messages from the Doctor (VTC screen) can be formatted as CHA messages (general) or Patient messages (specific to selected Patient) and both of those options can be highlighted URGENT before sending.
Messages can be programmed into a list for quick access through the Touchpad.
To program your Messages:
- Click on the TOUCHPAD button, with your mouse, on the VTC
- Press the Message button on the Touchpad you are programming the list for
- Type your Messages into the list format that appears
- Click SAVE and EXIT when complete
There are two methods for accessing the Message options
Keyboard/Mouse Combination:
- Click on the Message button located at the top of the VTC screen
- Choose which Message Type you would like to create Patient: only available when a Patient file is open – this option will append the selected Patient’s name to the Message CHA: sends along a general message to the CHA screen
- Manually Type the Message or select the corresponding Message Number using the Touchpad number pad If you manually type your Message, click ENTER on your keyboard to SEND
- The Message will be sent to each computer open to the CHA screen
Touchpad Method:
- Press the CHA MSG or PATIENT MSG button on the Touchpad
- If the Message should be sent ‘Urgent’ press the URGENT button The word Urgent will appear at the bottom of the Message window. URGENT Messages appear directly on the Schedule area of the CA Screen
- Select the desired Message by using your number pad in the upper, right corner of the Touchpad NOTE: for numbers 11-19, press 10+ and then the next digit for numbers 20-29, press 20+ and then the next digit for numbers 30-39, press 30+ and then the next digit
- Messages will send immediately
Patient messages will send the text along with the selected patient name: this is good for telling your Front Desk to schedule a patient for additional visits, talk with the patient about finances and more.
CHA messages will send without a patient name and are designed for more generalized office messages.
If you are using the touchpad, you can also press URGENT once you choose a message type. URGENT messages will appear over the daily schedule on the CHA screen, helping ensure your Front Desk receive the message. Regular messages will usually appear in the lower, right corner of the CHA screen.
Along with the messaging system, your Front Desk can send messages back to the Doctor (VTC screens). These Messages appear as a discreet Red Bar on the bottom of the VTC. If a Message is pending, the Doctor can click on the bar with the mouse to open the Message. Alternatively, the Doctor can use the MSG TO DR button on the Touchpad to open the pending message. Messaging from the front can be generalized (appear on all computers open to the VTC) or specific to a Patient (only appear when specified Patient signs in at the table). It is important to be watching for Messages regularly.