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

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Clinical Operations Management
• Healthcare Economics

Background:

• Electronic health records and digital resources are increasingly vital in modern healthcare.
• Assessing the return on investment for new clinical technologies is crucial for adoption.
• Standardizing clinical procedures is essential for patient safety and quality of care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the cost-benefit of implementing an electronic clinical procedural resource at the patient bedside.
• To determine the impact of bedside electronic references on organizational standardization.
• To identify factors influencing staff utilization of new clinical information systems.

Main Methods:

• A cost-benefit analysis was conducted within a large, academic health system.
• Staff utilization rates of the electronic reference system were monitored.
• Organizational standardization metrics were assessed before and after implementation.

Main Results:

• The electronic reference system resulted in significant cost savings of $360,899.
• Implementation led to increased standardization of clinical policies and procedures across the organization.
• Ongoing education was identified as necessary to maximize system utilization.

Conclusions:

• Bedside electronic clinical procedural resources provide a strong return on investment and enhance standardization.
• Effective staff training and ongoing education are critical for successful technology adoption in healthcare.
• The system reduces the need for expert clinical and instructional staff time in policy development.