Implementation

Technology Components for a Small Office. A small office needs to have a means to input patient information in both paper and new digital formats, some way to view and query records and a storage system that includes backup.

Document input devices for inputting existing paper records. Usually a high-end scanner that can handle the large volume of existing records.

Data access devices that staff can use to pull up electronic charts and medical records for viewing. These include desktops, Tablet PCs, notebooks, and handheld computers. Medical office workflow and usability studies show that in deploying an EMR, it is essential to have an access device in every examining room, if not for every staff member. Mobile devices are especially useful for accessing electronic records anywhere.

Printing devices to output patient records and other information. Wireless printers can be easily moved to wherever they are needed.

Server and/or storage devices to store the electronic medical records and/or to run specialized EMR software. Depending on the size of organization, may be necessary to have storage dedicated specifically to storing all electronic records. Not necessary for ASP solutions.

Client/Server Solution Example
· Enterprise Records Management: Xerox-Fujitsu Docushare technology for scanning and content management
· Data Storage: Dell PowerVault Storage Area Network System
· Data Backup: Offsite Data Storage Remote Replication; Onsite RAID 50 Implementation
· Relational Database Management System: Microsoft SQL Server 2005
· Custom Integration: Vendor provided services - Xerox

Application Service Provider Example
· Desktop Client: Citrix Thin Client
· EMR Service: Unicharts Web Based Application
· Integration services provided by EMR vendor

Implementation Steps

1. Determine needs. Conduct a requirements analysis.
2. Select EMR solution based on analysis.
3. Set up the network with devices for scanning, storing, and accessing medical records.
4. Install and configure EMR software.
5. Work with your EMR vendor's protocol for workflow design, training for your people and preparedness of your practice to transition to the new system
6. Begin using EMR system for all new patient and medical records.
7. Begin scanning/digitizing process for legacy records.