After working with over 95% of South Dakota’s primary care physicians, we have noted the same observations that are seen across the U.S. Below you will find a few suggestions that are paramount to your success as you transition to an EHR.
Communication is Key
As large initiatives get underway, communication is key to an organization. Gathering all the stakeholders and gaining input is important. Involving provider and clinician nput to vendor selection is also important as they will be working with the system the most. And as other progress is made, communicating the steps achieved and next steps to take is also important. The more your organization communicates about their EHR, the more focus will be placed on it and its place in the future of healthcare.
The Time is Now
Some organizations see large projects like an EHR adoption and allow other projects to mingle in, assuming it will get done, but with no real timetable. But based on federal guidelines, there are specific deadlines that incentives are related to. Putting the money aside, there are real benefits to be gained from an EHR adoption. It’s not an overnight project, but one that takes real organizational effort. When that effort is put in, the benefits WILL follow – to both provider and patient. So the best time to start is NOW. As hiccups arise – and they will – at least you will have more time to address those. Keep your momentum on your side, lead the way and take action.
Change is a Constant and Not the Exception
Everyone has their opinion about change, but truth be told – whether we like it or not, change is a constant. Go back in time 5, 10 or 20 years and reflect on how much has changed around us. We can outrun change. We can’t outsmart change. It is inevitable. So with the impact healthcare is seeing – and will see – with EHRs, change is showing its face yet again. Change can be painful. But the more you plan, the more you communicate and the more you embrace the change, the easier your EHR adoption will be.