subject: Key Areas Of Emr Implementation [print this page] Most providers today tend to complain about the complexities of EMR based documentation. Given that this is the future of the healthcare industry, this issue does raise significant concerns. The widespread adoption of Electronic Medical Records has yielded a diverse set of reaction from the medical community. While some have been able to utilize EMR systems to improve practice productivity, others have struggled to attain acceptable levels of business processes. Electronic medical records significantly alter job descriptions, new responsibilities are added while some of the processes are completely eliminated.
With the focus shifting towards coordinated care, this trend is likely to continue through the decade. Organizations will be required to restructure themselves while planning for the risks associated with EMR based information exchange. Most industry experts recommend formal risk management planning and regular interventions aimed at increasing risk awareness amongst employees and application users. A number of EMR implementations fail within the first year of adoption while the trend of switching vendors is becoming awfully common.
The success or failure of an EMR implementation resides with the selection process, change management and EMR training along with vendor support.
The selection process is often complex and tedious but dedicated research and analysis often yields optimum results. Incorporating user references and visiting live sites is likely to give a better view of the system in question.
Change management is one of the most essential parts of implementation. Selling the change to the staff by involving them in the process can affect motivational levels along with post implementation results. Those affected by the transition should also be able to receive counseling and air out their concerns.
EMR training is another key aspect determining the success of implementation. An objective based training curriculum and personalized training can go a long way in ensuring process efficiency and practice productivity. Employees should also be trained to handle discrepancies through contingency planning whilst being aware of organizational risks.
Good after sales service can be the difference maker during the transitional phase. Providers should ensure to go into a contract with a reliable EMR vendor. Negotiating contractual terms for after sales service and support is considered prudent.
Following these steps will help ease the transition whilst improving the outcomes post implementation. While some loss of productivity is considered normal, most practices should be able to receive their returns on investment following the first year of implementation.
