Managing an oncology practice involves navigating complex treatment plans, detailed patient histories, and specific billing requirements. Keeping everything organized and efficient is a major challenge. The right technology can transform a clinic’s workflow, freeing up time for what truly matters: patient care. iKnowMed Generation 2 is an electronic health record (EHR) system built specifically for the unique needs of oncology and hematology.
This guide provides a complete overview of the iKnowMed Generation 2 platform. We will explore its key features, walk through the login process, offer solutions for common technical issues, and share tips to help your practice get the most out of this powerful tool. Whether you are a doctor, nurse, or administrator, you will find valuable insights to streamline your daily operations.
What is iKnowMed Generation 2?
iKnowMed Generation 2 is a cloud-based EHR software created by McKesson Specialty Health. Unlike generic EHR systems, it is designed from the ground up to support the complex workflows of cancer care. It serves as a central hub for patient charting, treatment planning, charge capture, and clinical documentation, all tailored to the fields of oncology and hematology.
The platform provides a single, unified view of a patient’s medical file, allowing oncologists to quickly review critical information before an appointment. It comes with specialty-specific templates for encounter notes and order sets, which helps reduce errors and save valuable time. Because it is a cloud-based service, authorized users can access it from various devices, ensuring connectivity whether they are in the clinic, hospital, or working remotely.
Key Features and Benefits for Oncology Practices
iKnowMed Generation 2 offers a suite of tools that address the main pain points of a modern oncology clinic. These features help improve clinical efficiency, financial performance, and patient engagement.
Specialized Oncology Tools
The system includes treatment regimen libraries and sophisticated chemotherapy order management. One of its standout features is a clinical decision support tool that highlights evidence-based treatment options at the point of care. This helps clinicians stay aligned with established guidelines, like the Value Pathways powered by NCCN™.
Streamlined Clinical Workflow
The platform integrates with labs, pharmacies, and diagnostic imaging centers, creating a seamless flow of information. It also features Lynx Mobile, an inventory management tool that helps practices track medication stock, schedule treatments safely, and optimize inventory levels. This ensures that the right treatments are administered efficiently while managing costs.
Enhanced Patient Communication
Through the integrated My Care Plus patient portal, iKnowMed encourages better communication between patients and their care teams. Patients can log in to view their diagnosis details, see approved lab results, check allergy information, and request prescription refills. This level of access empowers patients and keeps them engaged in their own care journey.
Read-Only Environment for Downtime
The platform includes a “Read Only” environment, which acts as a backup system. If the main production environment is unavailable, clinicians can still access a version of patient charts and data from the previous day. This ensures continuity of care even during system maintenance or unexpected outages.
How to Log In to iKnowMed Generation 2
Accessing your iKnowMed account is a secure and straightforward process. Here are the steps for authorized clinical and administrative staff:
- Open your web browser and go to the official iKnowMed Generation 2 login page, which is typically
ikm.ontada.com. - You will see the iKnowMed logo and a simple login form.
- Enter your assigned Username in the provided field.
- Click the “Next” button.
- On the following screen, enter your password and complete any two-factor authentication steps required by your organization.
Remember to bookmark the correct login page for easy access. For the backup system, the URL is different, so ensure you are using the main production link for daily work.
Troubleshooting Common Login Issues
Even with a reliable system, you might occasionally run into login trouble. Here are some solutions to the most common problems.
Incorrect Username or Password
This is the most frequent issue. Double-check that you have typed your username and password correctly, paying attention to capitalization. If you have forgotten your password, your practice administrator can help you reset it. For security reasons, there is not usually a self-service password reset link on the login page itself.
Account Is Locked
After several incorrect login attempts, the system will automatically lock your account to prevent unauthorized access. If this happens, you will need to contact your practice administrator or the designated IT support team. They can verify your identity and unlock your account.
Unable to Access Read-Only Environment
If you are trying to access the backup Read-Only environment and cannot get in, first confirm you are using the correct URL. Permissions in the Read-Only environment mirror your settings in the main system. If you do not have “View” permissions for a specific feature, you will not be able to see it in the backup. Functionality like resetting passwords is not available in the Read-Only version; all account management must be done in the live environment.
Tips for Maximizing iKnowMed in Your Practice
To get the most value from iKnowMed Generation 2, it is important to go beyond basic charting.
- Invest in Training: The system is powerful, but it has a learning curve. Ensure all new staff members receive thorough training on its features. Ongoing training can also introduce your team to new updates and more advanced workflows.
- Customize Your Templates: Take the time to customize order sets and note templates to fit your practice’s specific needs. This initial investment will save countless hours in the long run by making documentation faster and more consistent.
- Utilize the Patient Portal: Encourage your patients to sign up for and use the My Care Plus portal. An engaged patient is often a more compliant one. Use the portal to send educational materials, appointment reminders, and lab result notifications to reduce administrative phone calls.
- Leverage Reporting Tools: Explore the real-time reporting and benchmarking features. This data can provide valuable insights into your practice’s clinical and financial performance, helping you identify areas for improvement and ensure you are meeting quality care standards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is iKnowMed Generation 2 only for oncologists?
A: Yes, it is specifically designed for oncology and hematology practices. Its features, templates, and workflows are all tailored to the complexities of cancer care, making it less suitable for other medical specialties.
Q: Can I use iKnowMed Generation 2 on a mobile device?
A: The main EHR is designed for desktop use. However, integrated tools like Lynx Mobile for inventory management and the patient portal are mobile-friendly. The Read-Only environment is not designed for mobile devices.
Q: What happens if I make a change in the Read-Only environment?
A: You cannot make permanent changes in the Read-Only environment. It is for viewing data only. Any changes you might appear to make will not be saved or transferred to the live production system.
Q: How current is the data in the Read-Only environment?
A: The data is typically refreshed every evening, so it reflects the information from the end of the previous business day.