News
Ellen Goad of Thomas Eye Center Attends Technology Seminar
February 15, 2008
(Athens, GA) Ellen Goad, Practice Manager at Thomas Eye Center, attended the American Optometric Association “Building the Paperless Practice” January seminar in Dallas, Texas.
The AOA seminar focused on the use of electronic health records (EHRs), which are being used more frequently in optometrist’s offices. An EHR is an individual patient’s medical record in digital format, including patient demographics, medical history, test results, images and billing records. EHR systems can reduce medical errors associated with written records, increase physician efficiency and reduce costs, as well as promote a standardization in care. EHRs are applicable to optometric practices of all types, from solo practices to corporate-affiliated offices.
“Electronic health records and related health information technology are becoming ‘facts of life’ faster than most optometrists realize,” said Col. Francis L. McVeigh, O.D., chair of the AOA Health Information Technology and Telemedicine Project Team. “While EHRs can represent a significant expenditure, the cost will be offset over time by increased practice efficiency and will maintain a practice’s value.”
The “Building the Paperless Practice” seminar offered courses on the selection of an EHR system, overcoming implementation hurdles, and case studies of optometrists who have successfully transitioned to EHR systems.
Goad is a Licensed Dispensing Optician who has been with Thomas Eye Center since 1998. Ellen is a graduate of The University of Georgia, where she received her Bachelor of Science in Educational Psychology. She has extensive experience in the ophthalmic field, and has worked with several vision specialists in the Athens area. She currently is a member of the Optician’s Association of Georgia, the American Board of Opticianry and the National Contact Lens Examiners.
Thomas Eye Center is a well-known optometry practice in Athens, having served the community since 1951. Founded by Dr. Gerald Thomas, the practice is dedicated to the delivery of excellent eye health care and to providing the latest trends in optical merchandise, including frames, lenses and contact lenses. Thomas Eye Center provides complete vision analysis including eye examinations, ocular disease screenings and the treatment of ocular conditions, as well as prescriptions and glasses and contact lens fittings. For more information or to arrange for an appointment, contact Thomas Eye Center at 706.549.7757 or visit their website at ThomasEyeCenter.com