Implementation of an electronic medical record in family practice: a case study

Electronic medical records (EMRs) have the potential to foster a safer, more effective and more efficient healthcare system. However, their implementation in primary care practice remains a challenge.

This study aims at exploring factors that have influenced the successful implementation of an EMR system in a family medicine group (FMG) in the Province of Québec, Canada.

A case study approach was selected to get a deep understanding of the phenomenon in its context. The case was chosen on the basis that it was the first FMG in Québec to implement a full EMR used by all clinicians. Fifteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with key informants.

Factors that have influenced the success of the EMR implementation were classified under three broad themes: a project leader who combined the roles of clinical, technology and knowledge champion; an organisation that was open to and supportive of change; and an evidence-based implementation strategy tailored to the local context and adoption pace.

This study underscores the importance of a champion for successful EMR implementation. It proposes a set of roles and characteristics that could be found in a champion as well as other elements for a successful EMR implementation strategy.