Time-Saving Tips for DME Management

Introduction: The Administrative Burden of DME 

Time is an invaluable resource in hospice and home care. Tasks that involve intricate coordination and repetitive administrative work are numerous — and one of the biggest culprits is managing durable medical equipment (DME). 

DME management determines whether patients receive the equipment they need promptly and efficiently. But, more often than not, it translates into having to follow-up with DME providers when deliveries and pickups are not met, service and equipment challenges, and billing errors.  The operational and administrative challenges for hospice providers often result in impaired patient care and a negative experience for caregivers. 

Streamlining DME management can free up valuable hours for you and your staff, allowing you to spend time on what truly matters: high-quality care. These DME time-saving tips will simplify your practice and improve patient satisfaction. 

Tip 1: Optimize the Ordering Processes 

Any hospice manager has, at some point, faced a much-dreaded bottleneck in the ordering process in DME management. Handling orders, tracking approvals, and being on top of paperwork can lead to endless hours of repetitive tasks. 

EMR interface is a game-changer in this regard. Allowing orders to be submitted and approved automatically helps reduce DME admin tasks on your end. It also reduces errors of patient demographic and geographic data throughout the whole process, as the interface accommodates that work. 

Real-time updates are also possible with digital systems, enabling caregivers to monitor the state of their requests without endless phone calls. Automated workflows are the future — and we're sure they can help any practice. 

Qualis' DME ordering system lets you handle all your requests in seconds. From detailed images and descriptions to simplified tracking, Qualis can elevate your business to a whole new level. 

Tip 2: Improve Vendor Coordination 

If there's a critical component in efficient DME management, it's vendor management. Inefficient coordination is a common cause of delays, miscommunications, and errors — which is why a vendor-flexible network is more essential than ever. 

By having access to multiple suppliers, you can select the perfect vendor based on availability, delivery speed, and price. This ensures your patients' needs are adequately met on time without resorting to overpriced items. 

Qualis' robust DME vendor network aims to fill that role by getting you in touch with a wide selection of vendors for extensive coverage. We never lean on a single vendor too much — and neither should you. 

This vendor-flexible approach allows you to remain in control and reduces the likelihood of last-minute surprises, as backup options are always available. Simplified communication also enhances efficiency throughout, and we carefully evaluate each vendor to ensure they meet reliability and quality standards. 

Tip 3: Utilize Proactive Support 

Solving problems only after they arise is a common, yet often overlooked, pitfall in DME management. While solving issues when they occur is of critical importance, a proactive approach reduces recurrence while allowing you to identify and mitigate challenges before they escalate enough to disturb your patients' experience. 

At Qualis, we do both. We’re with you to solve any pressing issue, and our proprietary approach to preventing recurrence is unique in the hospice industry.   

But it's more than just having a great ordering platform, vendor flexibility, and service.  It’s about providing your clinical and administrative teams with reports, dashboards, and business reviews.  Our business reviews are when utilization of DME is discussed and where saving money on DME in a variety of areas is accommodated. 

Save Time With the Right DME Partner 

The key to effective DME management is simplifying processes and leveraging the right tools. Optimizing workflows, improving vendor coordination, and embracing proactive solutions can save you hours of endlessly mending unnecessary mistakes. 

And, as in any other business, time is money. Streamlining your DME management can save you thousands of dollars, which you can then redirect toward your patients and team. An optimized hospice means happier patients and staff — and fewer problems for you. 

At Qualis, we understand your challenges and are with you all the way! 

Ready to free up time for your staff and simplify DME processes? Contact Qualis today to discover how we can transform your DME management.