FAQs

Is the system really free?

We do not charge for our standard software. There is a small charge if you use the cloud solution which covers the cost of the data centre where your clinic’s data will be stored and the data centre where it will be backed up. 

Some clinics have unusual needs (for example maternity clinics will often want more maternity functionality than is included in our standard software). It may be possibly to develop a plug-in which provides that additional functionality. We would charge you for that plug-in.

Do you provide the computers and anything else we need?

You are responsible for obtaining the computer equipment you need in your clinic and for providing anything else needed at your clinic (power, telecoms, etc).

Our power and internet connectivity are unreliable – will Outreach EMR work?

You only need to charge your laptop once a day and occassional internet access is acceptable (but less than ideal because of the risk of data not being backed up).

What devices do I need and how many devices do I need?

The minimum specification depends on whether you are using the cloud, a stand alone desktop computer or roaming functionality and is set out here. You can use the system with just one device or over a larger number of devices.

Can we start using interoperability immediately?

Outreach EMR is DHIS2 enabled, so if your health department uses DHIS2 your health facility can easily provide data by making the relevant systems selections. Check with your local health department to see if it uses DHIS2.

How secure is our data and is it backed up?

That depends on how you use Outreach EMR’s system...

Cloud solution users will have their software and data stored in a professional data centre in India which will be backed up regularly to a second professional data centre in a different Indian city. Your data is not encrypted in transit but is encrypted at the live and backup data centres.

Roaming users will have a copy of their software and data on a mobile laptop.  Stand alone desktop users will have a copy of their software and the only copy of their data on a desktop and/or mobile laptop. The security of those devices depends on the security processes that you use, including your back up arrangements and the security of those back ups.

What happens if the cloud solution fails?

If the servers providing the cloud solution fail, we will seek to restore the service as quickly as we can, using your data from the back up site if necessary. If you have a probljem with your cloud serivce, we will explore the problem with you - as it is a cloud solution, we can usually access your site easily.

What happens if a computer is stolen?

Your computers ought all to have been set up with password protection and teh passwords should be kept secure. The implications of losing an laptop are greater for desktop installations as all your clinic's data will be in that laptop.

Do we have to use the entire system?

You do not have to use all the functions of Outreach EMR – for example HIV/Aids, malnutrition and immunisation outposts and refugee camps will all be able to benefit by using the relevant parts of the system and ignoring everything else.

What technical expertise do we need to use your software?

In our experience, people with no previous IT experience can learn how to use the parts of the system they need to operate, in around 2 days.

Can the solution be customised?

You can, at a cost to you. Most clinics find they can acheive what they need with no customisation.