A Cost-Benefit Analysis: Electronic Clinical Procedural Resource Supporting Evidence-Based Practice

There are many benefits of having an electronic reference at the patient bedside. Because of the significant costs involved, it is important to first understand if staff will utilize the system. A cost-benefit analysis of such an electronic clinical procedural resource at one large, academic health system showed a significant savings of $360,899. Having an electronic reference system at the patient bedside increased standardization throughout the organization. Additionally, clinical and instructional experts are not needed to write standard policies and procedures. Ongoing education was needed to increase utilization of the system within the organization.