Cost

Implementing an EHR system will help both your organization and your patients. Clinicians can see medical profiles easier and patients get easy access to their medical history. But before all these, there are some costs to be studied.

Selection, implementation, and optimization are just some of the considerations you need to review. You also need to take note of employee training, hardware installations, assistance in implementation, continuing network fees, and support. In preparing for an EHR comes the realization that it is not a one-time payment move. You have to allocate for maintenance fees in streamlining your data systems.

Staff Resistance

Hesitation is to be expected when there are changes in an environment. Transitioning into an EHR system is especially confusing as it is not only a modification in the system, but also a technological change. In most cases where there is reluctance, staff lack awareness about the comprehensive benefits of implementing an EHR.

Acceptance among staff members is something that can be raised to build trust in the new system. It may be slow, but steady implementation and comprehensive training aids in embracing technological advancement. Ensure your staff that their current practices may be improved with the new system. In fact, their work can be done faster and their workload becomes considerably lighter with an EHR. An important note is that the staff needs to understand that the incoming change will give rise to a better business model and uplifted job satisfaction.

Data Migration

Let’s set it straight—it’s going to be a logistical nightmare. Exporting paper-based documents to digital records is time-consuming and tedious, but there are strategies on how to ease into this change.

One gameplan is to prioritize records. Start with the most recent files until you get to the older ones. The EHR should at least have the most recent records of a patient. Until you get all records on the EHR, you can access older records traditionally.

Another plan of action is to assign a special EHR uploader. This will be your EHR point person who is responsible for syncing all files into the system. This way, you know someone is always on top of all things migration.

Interoperability

This pertains to the sharing of data, whether within the organization or with outside providers. The quality of your interoperability depends on your EHR provider. Make sure you choose a system with good interactivity and one that provides add-ons and customization to help with the exchange of your electronic medical records.

IT Health Experts Assistance

Communication with your IT health vendor should be continuous. Whenever you have concerns or feedback, your EHR provider should be able to assist you. Choose a supplier who you can easily access for updates, like Zoobook Systems. As your consultant who developed an EHR made for clinicians by clinicians, Zoobook collaborates with you and your stakeholders to fulfill your vision.

As there would be in any new endeavor, there will be barriers to implementing electronic health records. The good thing is, you can map out your way in maneuvering through EHR implementation challenges. Whether it be the cost of the system, resistance from the staff, migration hindrances, or EHR interoperability challenges, there’s always a way to come up with a good mitigation strategy.