Jill Toliver, FNP and Gretchen Moen, PNP Owners, Nurse Practitioners Mendota Health, Eagan, MN

What do you do for information systems?

Initially billing will not be computerized but we will eventually move to computerization. Currently, the clinic has a 3-year contract with our consulting firm, Health Management Resources, who will not only be our business administrator but also will handle the billing. The terms are variable, depending on the volume and time needed to process claims. On average about the terms are either 2-3% of billed visits or the owners can choose to pay an hourly rate.

Other technology issues: We need to acquire a high-speed, reliable internet line as well as a network server to link all of the PCs in the office. The reference lab will have online registration and results. Mendota Health will supply the computer and printer while the lab will supply the program and a label-making printer. The telephones ring on a rolling bases and will have a 15 second "hold" delay.