Preparing your practice for EMR: are you ready?

Practices considering an EMR system purchase and implementation must first consider if the practice is ready to undertake a project of this size and magnitude, with such far-reaching implications for the organization. Before considering EMR, an evaluation of the existing PM system is in order. Incorporating an EMR system when the PM system is inadequate decreases ROI, minimizes the efficiencies gained through EMR and ultimately may not support the long-term goals of the practice. The first step for any group or solo medical practice is to understand itself: what are the practice's goals; where will the practice be in terms of maturity, market share, and community presence in five or 10 years; what are the requirements for a system to support the needs and goals of the practice? Understanding each of these aspects improves the negotiating strength of the practice, ensures a successful implementation plan, and decreases the time to return on objective and subsequent ROI.