EHR: Adapting Workflows

Many healthcare practices across the country may be running their operations through an online-based electronic health records (EHR) system or are moving to implement one. When the web-based EHR goes live, practice administrators realize that this requires some changes to the workflow pattern. Here are some things to consider according to EHR support vendors: 

Document existing workflows

Once the decision is made to install an EHR system in the practice, the medical staff needs to document all existing workflow processes. Each department is encouraged to outline its own workflows to give other departments a clue of how they fit into the overall scheme of things. This would help administrators identify redundancies that can be removed with the implementation of the EHR system.

Migrate data safely and consider auditing options

Being able to transition from paper to web EHR mechanisms requires a number of changes to the current setup. Consider options to scan existing data on hardcopies in the system. You also need to identify the proper steps to make a safe data migration while training staff how to use it. Some EHR providers also advocate implementing the new workflow with auditing considerations. 

Web-based EHRs can be the one thing your medical practice needs to bring its services to the next level. Are you prepared to change your current system and move on to a more efficient one?