Community-Based Oncology Practices Have a New Affordable Practice Management System Offering by US Oncology

THE WOODLANDS, Texas, Dec. 7, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Community-based oncology practices now have a new affordable practice management (PM) system option, iKnowMed PM. iKnowMed PM is offered by US Oncology, Inc., the nation's leading integrated oncology company, and is accessible via the Internet and customizable for community-based oncology practices. The PM system works with other iKnowMed systems and can interface with a variety of other EHRs already in place in offices across the country.

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To develop iKnowMed PM, US Oncology partnered with Henry Schein, the largest distributor of health care products and services to office-based practitioners. The PM system was created by customizing Henry Schein's MicroMD PM, which was ranked in the top 10 for the Practice Management (two to five physicians) market segment in the "2009 Top 20 Best in KLAS Awards: Software & Professional Services" report, to meet the needs of oncology practices.

"iKnowMed PM was designed for practices looking for an affordable oncology-specific practice management solution," said Asif Ahmad, executive vice president of technology services, US Oncology. "US Oncology has extensive experience in the complexities of community cancer care, and we are excited that we could partner with Henry Schein to customize its award-winning practice management system with features that support the unique needs of community-based oncology practices."

By applying the expertise of US Oncology and its network of cancer care practices, iKnowMed PM offers innovative features that help practices more easily manage their front- and back-office processes. The system is designed to help practices improve reimbursement processes and streamline office efficiencies so they can focus on improving patient care. iKnowMed PM has standard practice management functions as well as oncology-specific features including:

• Scheduling and registration
• Infusion suite scheduling
• Referral and authorization tracking
• EHR integrated charge capture

"iKnowMed PM interfaces with other electronic health record (EHR) systems as well as other products under the iKnowMed Integrated Oncology System platform. This includes plans to interface with the new iKnowMed Patient (PT) information system, a patient portal scheduled to launch early next year," said Ahmad. "iKnowMed PT offers patients convenient online options for scheduling, bill pay, and other self-service features. The system was designed to improve office efficiencies, accuracy and provide a better overall patient experience."

About US Oncology

US Oncology, Inc. is the nation's leading integrated oncology company. By uniting the largest community-based cancer treatment and research network in America, US Oncology expands patient access to high-quality care and advances the science of cancer care. Headquartered in The Woodlands, Texas, US Oncology is affiliated with more than 1,400 community-based oncologists, and works with patients, hospitals, payers, and the medical industry across all phases of the cancer research and delivery continuum. By promoting the use of innovative technology, clinical research, evidence-based medicine and shared best practices, US Oncology improves patient outcomes and offers a better patient experience. For more information, visit www.usoncology.com.

About MicroMD

The MicroMD brand of practice solutions encompasses simple yet powerful EMR and practice management solutions that help facilitate the delivery of superior patient care; automate incentive and quality reporting activities; and streamline operations for today's busy providers. Full-featured, time-tested and budget-friendly, the MicroMD CCHIT-certified, award-winning software helps small practices, large medical groups, community health centers and billing services accelerate progress towards a paperless environment and health information exchange with minimal disruption and stress. High client retention rates attest to its market-leading presence and client-centric focus. Visit us at www.micromd.com or call 1-800-624-8832.

About Henry Schein, Inc.

Henry Schein, a Fortune 500® company and a member of the NASDAQ 100® Index, is recognized for its excellent customer service and highly competitive prices. The Company's five businesses – North American Dental, North American Medical, North American Animal Health, International and Technology - serve more than 700,000 customers worldwide, including dental practitioners and laboratories, physician practices and animal health clinics, as well as government and other institutions. The Company operates through a centralized and automated distribution network, which provides customers in more than 200 countries with a comprehensive selection of more than 90,000 national and Henry Schein private-brand products in stock, as well as more than 100,000 additional products available as special-order items. Henry Schein also provides exclusive, innovative technology offerings for dental, medical and veterinary professionals, including value-added practice management software and electronic health record solutions. Headquartered in Melville, N.Y., Henry Schein employs more than 13,500 people and has operations or affiliates in 24 countries. The Company's net sales reached a record $6.5 billion in 2009. For more information, visit the Henry Schein website at www.henryschein.com.

SOURCE US Oncology, Inc.