Electronic Signatures beta 16.4 question

[Pruce Dental]

I like this!

Do theses electronic signatures hold up legally as good as using a Topaz pad? Anything we need to know or document?

Are there any plans to add electronic signatures to the exam sheets too? We have several forms to store charting data and without a signature could not prove the info was not altered. Taking out a Topaz pad and signing every soft tissue exam, PSR exam, endo exam, etc. would take forever and require revisiting the chart later after removing gloves to sign...Now clicking on the electronic signature with a covered mouse after filling out the form seems real practical.

[Pruce Dental]

No thoughts?

[Ryan]

Thank you, I'm glad you like the new feature.

Do theses electronic signatures hold up legally as good as using a Topaz pad?

Maybe, it would depend on the circumstances. e-Signatures cannot be matched to a user's handwriting, so you must prove that only one person could have produced it digitally. To do that, you must prove who does/doesn't have access to login with the user/provider in question. This places in increased importance on physical and digital security within your offices. If a signed document is altered, the signature will become invalidated. This is true of both e-Signatures and topaz signatures. So even if you cannot prove WHO signed the document, you may still be able to prove that the document has not been altered since it was signed.

Are there any plans to add electronic signatures to the exam sheets too?

No, not at the moment, but that would make a great feature request.

Disclaimer: I think I am obligated to say that I am not a lawyer and cannot provide sound legal advice.

[thanosnt]

Hello do you recommend any wireless signature pads for pt forms and consent forms?

Thanks!

[cmcgehee]

Currently, the only signature pads compatible with Open Dental are USB connected. For a full list see http://opendental.com/manual/electronicsignatures.html.

When our customers want a portable method for having patients sign forms, they use an iPad or a Surface tablet.

[spolevoy]

Currently, the only signature pads compatible with Open Dental are USB connected. For a full list see http://opendental.com/manual/electronicsignatures.html.

When our customers want a portable method for having patients sign forms, they use an iPad or a Surface tablet.

can you elaborate how?
We have constant problems with signed tx plans not scanned correctly. It would be so much easier to present them on an Ipad or tablet, sign and import them.
Any suggestions?

[jsalmon]

I don't believe patients can use an iPad to sign forms. The Surface Pro however can sign forms when put into Kiosk mode.
http://www.opendental.com/manual/kiosk.html

Web Form signatures are "captured later" when the patient gets into the office. It would be a feature request to start allowing e-signatures via web forms which would then solve the root of this issue IMO.
http://www.opendental.com/manual/webforms.html
http://www.opendental.com/manual/featurerequests.html