Communication Patterns in the Perioperative Environment During Epic Electronic Health Record System Implementation

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Informatics
• Clinical Communication Systems
• Quality Improvement in Healthcare

Background:

• Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) transitioned to the Epic electronic health records (EHR) system in April 2016.
• The Vocera® Badge Communication System was utilized to enhance communication among perioperative teams.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess communication patterns during an EHR go-live event.
• To evaluate the impact of EHR implementation on communication system usage.

Main Methods:

• Monitoring Vocera call and user volume before, during, and after the EHR go-live.
• Analyzing communication data in relation to planned EHR implementation and unplanned downtime.

Main Results:

• A significant increase in Vocera call and user volume was observed during the immediate EHR go-live period.
• Communication system usage returned to baseline levels shortly after the go-live.
• Increased call volume was also noted during periods of unplanned EHR downtime.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare leadership must proactively plan for and support critical communication needs during EHR go-live events.
• Awareness of communication system demands during unplanned EHR downtime is essential for maintaining operational efficiency.