The use of a clinical case study in a clinical information system selection process

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Clinical Information Systems
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• The University of Pennsylvania Health System (Penn Medicine) initiated a comprehensive selection process for a new clinical information system (CIS).
• Traditional system selection methods were augmented with an innovative clinical case study approach.
• This initiative aimed to enhance the preparedness of clinical staff and proactively identify operational challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the rationale behind employing a clinical case study in the CIS selection process.
• To explain the methodology and application of the clinical case study.
• To evaluate the overall utility and effectiveness of the case study approach in system selection.

Main Methods:

• A traditional CIS vendor evaluation framework was combined with a practical clinical case study.
• The case study simulated real-world clinical scenarios to test system usability and workflow integration.
• Clinicians actively participated in the case study to assess system performance and identify potential implementation hurdles.

Main Results:

• The clinical case study provided valuable insights into system design and operational requirements.
• It facilitated early identification of key issues crucial for successful CIS implementation.
• Clinician engagement and preparedness for the new system were significantly improved.

Conclusions:

• The integration of a clinical case study is a highly effective strategy for selecting and implementing new clinical information systems.
• This method enhances user preparedness and mitigates risks associated with system transitions.
• Institutions should consider adopting similar case study approaches for complex clinical system procurements.