Why You Need an EHR and SIS for School-Based Mental Health Services

Written by Brooke White | Sep 10, 2024 9:39:38 PM

What is Student Information System Software?

Most school districts are familiar with Student Information System (SIS) software, which schools have been using for decades to handle essential school functions such as:

Managing student records
Documenting grades
Storing demographic data
Updating emergency contacts
Tracking discipline

What is Electronic Health Record Software?

Electronic Health Record (EHR) software manages health-related data. In schools, EHR software might be used by a school nurse to document:

Basic health information
Immunization records
Health assessments and reports
Medical history
Medication administration

But that’s not all EHR software can do! Advanced EHR software platforms go beyond capturing physical health information- they also support mental and behavioral health services.

For example, Exym is a specialized EHR software solution used by school mental heath professionals specifically for California behavioral health documentation and billing.

As mental health caseloads grow and state funding streams change, more children are receiving mental health services within schools than ever before. Having both SIS software and EHR software has become a necessity for many Local Education Agencies (LEAs) providing school-based mental health services in California.

Why EHR Software is Essential for School-Based Mental Health Services

As California’s funding for school-based mental health services evolves, so do the state requirements for technology, documentation, security, and billing. That’s why many LEAs are turning to EHR software to complement their existing SIS software. Here are a few reasons for this shift.

Enhanced Data Security: EHR software includes advanced data security features, ensuring student data remains protected and private. For example, Exym keeps LEAs in alignment with HIPAA and FERPA, as demonstrated through an independent system audit from a third party. This level of security is crucial for LEAs taking part in Medi-Cal and state billing initiatives.

School-Based Mental Health Features: Unlike SIS software, paper files, or computer docs, EHR software offers specialized features for school mental health professionals, including:

Evidence-based practice guides, prompts, and suggested interventions that help clinicians write notes
Templates, customizable note formats, and deadline notifications for efficient documentation
Daily case management tools and dynamic scheduling features
Role-based access permissions for secure data management
Secure electronic document signing and sending
Tools for intern management and supervision, including notes approvals with the click of a button
Remote data access from anywhere with internet- whether that’s multiple school sites, a community clinic, or even at home
Data analytics, tracking and tools for outcomes and progress reporting
Telehealth capability for online counseling and meetings

Simplified Billing: California LEAs rely on EHR software to navigate Medi-Cal, multi-payer, and fee-for-service billing requirements and compliance. At Exym, we know billing is stressful, and clinicians don’t want to turn their kids into codes. Our billing tools are integrated directly into clinician workflows and linked to activities, eliminating the need to manually input complex billing codes. Built-in validation checks catch errors before claims are submitted, reducing costly coding errors.

The Benefits of Using Exym EHR Software

Exym is more than just another information system, it’s a comprehensive EHR software solution for school-based mental health professionals. Trusted for over 20 years in the behavioral health field, our intuitive and customizable software empowers Local Education Agencies (LEAs) to:

Improve student outcomes
Streamline documentation
Make data-driven decisions
Report on program metrics
Secure records
Increase efficiency

Whether you’re a single school, a large district, or a county office of education, our scalable solutions are tailored to meet the needs of LEAs.

We’re proud of our California roots and have extensive expertise in Medi-Cal and county-specific mental health billing requirements, including the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI). Exym also offers a flat monthly fee based on the number of users, ensuring you keep more of your funding where it’s needed most- supporting students and services.

Our user-friendly software also allows administrators, clinicians, and interns to quickly learn and navigate the system, so they can spend more time supporting students.

Ready to learn more?

Discover how Exym can enhance student outcomes in school-based mental health services. Visit our Schools Page today!

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