Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/133443
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + +++ + HEALTH CARE DECOR U+++ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ FOR YEARS YOU COULD SEE A PHONE BOOTH AT EVERY CORNER, BUT TODAY YOU HAVE TO HUNT TO FIND ONE. THE SAME COULD BE SAID ABOUT A 60" X 30" DESK OR FILE CABINETS IN A MEDICAL OFFICE. THAT WAS THEN, THIS IS NOW! Phone Booths and 60" x 30" Desks That was then; this is now! By Fran Cohen F U R N I T U R E O P T I O N S H AV E changed and become more ergonomic and user-friendly. No longer do you need to just specify a 60" x 30" desk for the entire work area. In the past one person was behind a window at a medical facility; patients would ring the bell and the office worker would take their information or check them in. Today, some receptionist areas have two windows — one at a height that corresponds with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and a traditional window — both of which must be in HIPAA compliance, rendering information on computer screens invisible. One window is built with a lower writing surface that accommodates those in wheelchairs. This allows the patients to fill out their information or talk with the 18 | San Antonio MD NEWS I MDNEWS.COM administrative staff. Some clinics have gone to iPads instead of clipboards to compile the patient's information. These can be more efficient; once the patient fills out the information, it's already in the database. The digital era is taking us to new heights! Even more changes come in 2014 with mandatory EHR implementation. Since you'll still need hard copies of your files, you may want to consider fireproof filing cabinets. You can get a Fire King FireFiles with 1-hour or 2-hour fire ratings in either a lateral or vertical design. These also provide safety from theft — a four-door vertical FireFile weighs around 1,050 lbs., making it extremely difficult to remove! Technology has changed every aspect of how we work. It has led to greater efficiency and better ergonomics in the workplace. Cubicles today are more functional, and they can be planned and specified to the work environment. Teknion Office Furniture has developed many cubicle products, including the popular Transit, T/O/S, Leverage, Expansion and more. This expansive line allows the space planner several options when specifying cubicles in the medical receptionist staff area.