Recommendation

There are still many obstacles to be overcome in regards to EMR systems and implementation. The temptation to wait for newer, better and less expensive software is significant. However, due to our research and cost-benefit analysis, we cautiously recommend moving towards implementing the technology for a small practice. We suggest the office first take some time to prepare for the implementation and then take a modular approach in implementing EMR. Small steps spread over time will ease users into the changes in work flow process. These steps might include starting with transitioning to charting on a tablet PC instead of a paper chart, then accessing previous patient records via computer or tablet PC. Later introduce medication management solutions with radiology and laboratory electronic solutions to follow.

Prior to vendor selection, the office should begin to prepare staff, including physicians for the work flow changes and begin to educate them on the benefits and efficiencies created by EMR. Upon selecting a provider, the practice should look for a solution that can be tailored to the specific needs of the practice. The vendor should provide scalable solutions with user friendly processes. Another consideration is finding a vendor that will be around to service practice once EMR is implemented.

The practice should begin to interview vendors who have many successful implementations under their belt. Ask about the ROI the previous organizations have seen since implementation and ask for contact numbers to follow up with the practices that have experienced the return on investment with EMR to verify their success.

The practice should then begin to budget for the eventual implementation or look into financing options. They should also budget for the loss of revenues during the implementation period when a reduced amount of patients will be taken in order to give staff time to become accustomed to the system.