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Prenatal care: a strategic first step toward EMR acceptance
Journal of Healthcare Information Management : JHIM
|April 18, 2003
Summary
Implementing electronic medical records requires identifying clinical areas with immediate value. Obstetrics is suggested as an ideal pilot department for electronic medical record testing due to clear clinician benefits.
Area of Science:
- Health Informatics
- Clinical Workflow Optimization
- Electronic Medical Records
Background:
- Traditional "big bang" electronic medical record (EMR) implementations can disrupt established clinical workflows.
- Identifying high-value areas for EMR adoption is crucial for successful integration.
- Clinician buy-in and immediate perceived value are key factors in technology adoption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose a strategic approach for implementing electronic medical records (EMRs) in healthcare settings.
- To identify specific clinical departments suitable for initial EMR pilot programs.
- To determine the optimal conditions for demonstrating the immediate value of EMRs to clinicians.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of clinical workflow requirements and potential EMR benefits.
- Evaluation of clinical areas based on the immediacy and obviousness of EMR value.
- Strategic recommendation of pilot departments for EMR implementation.
Main Results:
- A phased implementation approach is more effective than a "big bang" strategy.
- Clinical areas with immediate and obvious needs for EMRs offer the highest value.
- Obstetrics is identified as a prime candidate for initial EMR testing.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare organizations should prioritize EMR implementation in areas with clear, immediate clinical value.
- A targeted approach to EMR adoption, starting with departments like obstetrics, can lead to successful integration and user acceptance.
- Understanding clinician needs is paramount for effective electronic medical record deployment.