EHR Implementation Life Cycle

EHR (Electronic Health Records) implementations are a complex process that need to be carefully managed.

Identification

• Electronic Health Records are software systems that put medical records into data stored on a computer. These are also referred to as Electronic Medical Records (EMR).

Types

• Many vendors have developed EHR systems. Some only develop the software, and others offer ongoing technical support.

Function

• An EHR system streamlines the process of maintaining patient medical records. Some processes can be automated, and transferring information between medical offices is simplified.

Incentives

• The American Reinvestment and Recovery Act of 2009 offers incentives for medical practices to implement an EHR. Direct reimbursements are available, and amounts depend on the time frame of implementation.

Considerations

• Implementation of an EHR is time consuming and complex. The American Medical Informatics Association recommends breaking up the process into pre-implementation, implementation and post-implementation with a project manager and technical support roles designated throughout.

Warning

• The American Medical and Informatics Association also notes that nearly 50 percent of EHR implementations fail within the first year. The best way to ensure a successful implementation is to plan the process, ensure there is technical support and analyze the effect of an EHR on clinical work flow.