Why Aren’t Clinics Using Digital Intake Form Software?

Despite the clear benefits, many pediatric therapy clinics are still hesitant to switch to digital intake solutions. Here are some common reasons: 

1. Cost Concerns
Many clinics assume that digital intake platforms are expensive, especially when bundled with EMR systems. However, there are affordable, HIPAA-compliant options that can fit most budgets. 

2. Tech Overwhelm
Clinic owners and staff may feel intimidated by new software and worry about the learning curve. The good news? Most modern platforms are user-friendly. 

3. Data Security & HIPAA Compliance Worries
Concerns about protecting sensitive client information are valid, but many digital intake platforms are designed with HIPAA compliance in mind, offering encryption and secure data storage. 

4. “We’ve Always Done It This Way” Mentality
This is my personal favorite. You know how “wait and see” feels to you as a clinician? That’s how I feel about “we’ve always done it this way.” I get it, change is hard, especially in a busy clinic, but it is also how we grow. Some teams stick with paper forms simply because it’s familiar, even if it’s inefficient. 

5. Integration Challenges
Clinics worry that new systems won’t integrate smoothly with their existing EMR or billing platforms. Even if your EMR doesn’t have this capability, or (gasp) you aren’t using an EMR, using a digital intake tool is still more efficient than the old paper method.

Streamlining client onboarding with digital tools can significantly reduce admin workload, improve the parent experience, and create a smoother start for new clients. For clinics still using paper forms, overcoming the initial hurdles of switching to a digital intake system can pay off in the long run through time savings and improved efficiency.

Would you like help choosing digital intake solutions that integrate with EMR and billing systems? Reach out today to learn how we can simplify your clinic’s operations!