Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I get the real version?All installations of MedLook are the real program. The difference is simply in the licensing to unlock features.
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What about training?Rarely is on-site training necessary. The on-line videos are extremely beneficial. Webinars will also be available as per demand. One-on-one training can also be done remotely as required. In one to four hours every bit of the program can be covered.
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How many users are there for MedLook and where are they located?An exact number of users is unknown but our guess is roughly 2000 sites scattered all across the US. We're still looking for the first site in Hawaii - we want to do on-site training!!!
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How much do the updates cost?Since Feb. 2005 we have not charged an update fee because we have intentionally kept MedLook at version 3.0. That means there was no charge for the NPI changes! Beat that with another vendor - I doubt anybody else can make the same claim. When MedLook 4.0 comes up there will be an update fee. It will be similar to updating QuickBooks or MS Office and will depend upon your support agreement.
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How often is MedLook updated?Often, or as often as we can get a new build posted that will benefit even one customer. Sometimes we will post a couple of versions in the same week and then maybe not again for a couple of months. We strive to be responsive. We do not adhere to a philosophy of fixed released dates of six or twelve months.
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What's the difference between an update and an upgrade?An update is a release of software for the same major product version (like 3.0.115 to 3.0.116). An upgrade entails a major change in software from 3.0 to 4.0. Updates are always free whereas upgrades are usually at a cost.
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Can you convert legacy systems to MedLook?Yes, and no. Yes, if you can create any sort of text file(s). We prefer not open any database directly. There are so many versions of any given product with different database structures that it is prohibitive to attempt to convert all versions of any one product. We prefer to read data such as the CMS 1500 claims files, .csv files, or report listings. We can import transactions but we frown upon this. It is impossible to handle all of the nuances of each software package. Generally, reading the 1500 claims files is a great way to start and is widely available on most systems. Normally the fee is $200 or less.
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If we want to export MedLook out to another program is that possible?MedLook allows you to export virtually everything to .csv files or straight text files with no magic involved. Plus you can export much of the information in HL7 format.
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Can MedLook interface with an EMR?Yes, MedLook reads and writes HL7 formatted files. It also supports a few custom formats and can do more as required.
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What about clearinghouses or direct pay for carriers?MedLook has always been current with the CMS 1500 Print Image file. The 837 professional data file is nearly complete (November 20, 2009). There are "free" services and direct submission methods available. Generally we frown on these solutions as they are not centralized and generally troublesome. Using a clearinghouse, SolAce, or our integrated claims submission is much easier. If time and convenience equates to money saved then avoid the free or direct pay (i.e. from the carrier) alternatives.
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What's the difference between MedLook On-Line and the Desktop?In MedLook 3 and MedLook 4 the software is identical. MedLook On-Line is a hosted version of the desktop software. This means you have any where, any time access from a Windows or Mac computer via the internet. The client computer only has to run the CITRIX setup once and after that MedLook On-Line is available from your launch page (e.g. http://medlookusa.wizmoworks.com/).
Another difference is that MedLook On-Line is installed and ready to go, protected from viruses, backed up nightly, free from IT worries (such as system or disk crashes). Updates are posted for you when available.
MedLook On-Line does not require a software purchase. You pay the simple monthly fee as long as you use it. You also can have a desktop license while you are using MedLook On-Line if you need it but you are responsible for it's upkeep.
Those are the key differences. To learn more visit http://www.medlookusa.com/medlookonline.php#
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How long does it take before I can begin generating statements and claims?Hopefully you can begin billing in less than one hour. Downloading and installing the software depends upon your internet connection speed. Typically this takes two to ten minutes. After that you can submit your request for a serial number from the Help::Registration dialog. While waiting for the serial number you can immediately begin entering your provider and facility information. The next step would be to begin entering patient information (along with CPT and ICD codes, and carriers). Once you have your serial number you can generate claims and statements.
Of course, submitting claims requires some sort of enrollment forms so you'll have to begin that process immediately. This is the single largest hold up for claims submission.
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What about eStatements?MedLook supports at least two separate services for electronic statements (eStatements). This includes BillFlash and BestBill. In the very near future we will provide even more options.
While many users continue to mail their own statements there are some very good rea$on$ to do otherwise. Yep, you guessed it - money.
Consider the costs to generate statements in the office.
If you purchase from Office Depot (as of January 26, 2010) on-line:
- Medical self-seal envelopes, a box of 500 for $42.99. That's 8.6 cents per envelope.
- Clean seal security envelopes, a box of 500 for $24.99. That's 5 cents per return envelope.
- Laser Print Paper, Ream of 500 for $8.99. That's 1.8 cents per page.
- One US postage stamp cost 44 cents.
