Clinics go electronic: two stories from the field.

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Clinical Operations Management
• Healthcare Information Systems

Background:

• Hospitals widely adopt computerized record systems.
• Clinics also face the transition to electronic records.
• Understanding operational impacts in non-hospital settings is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the effects of electronic record system implementation on clinic operations.
• To document the transition process in a student health center and a family clinic.
• To assess the current functionality and outcomes post-implementation.

Main Methods:

• Case study approach examining two distinct clinic settings.
• Qualitative analysis of the implementation process.
• Evaluation of day-to-day operational changes.

Main Results:

• Electronic record systems alter workflows in clinics.
• Student health centers and family clinics successfully transitioned.
• Current operations are functional following implementation.

Conclusions:

• Electronic health record adoption is feasible and beneficial for clinics.
• The transition requires careful planning and adaptation.
• Further research can explore long-term impacts and best practices.