In an interesting report by LaToya Dennis of Milwaukee Public Radio, we learn that while many hospitals are making the push towards electronic medical records, online bill-paying is lagging behind in the medical world. LaserNet, a Green Bay tech company, is offering software to make online bill paying easier for hospitals and patients.

“The reality is, is that hospital systems have been so focused on electronic medical records that they haven’t had time to follow that up with the online billing availability that you’ve come to expect in just about any other industry,” [LaserNet founder Ane] Ohm says.

In 2007, LaserNet developed TransData 360, a system that allows hospital patients to view their most up-to-date bills online and make payments. Jeff Hampton, who manages billing at Bellin Health, said the system is saving his organization money.

“The consolidated payment process has reduced the number of statements that we send out by 30 percent,” Hampton says.

Wired Wisconsin supports local innovation that makes life easier for Wisconsin residents. With privacy safeguards in place, electronic medical records and online bill paying can make hospital visits safer, easier and less expensive.