The electronic medical record: perspective from Mayo Clinic

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Medical Information Systems

Background:

• Mayo Clinic established an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) Task Force in 1993.
• The task force was charged with defining EMR goals, strategies, and timelines for institutional implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To abstract key recommendations from the 1993 EMR Task Force report.
• To outline the foundational plan for EMR implementation at Mayo Clinic.

Main Methods:

• The task force comprised primarily caregivers (physicians, nurses) with support from information systems and administrative staff.
• Focus was placed on patient care, with the belief that a robust EMR would support broader institutional needs.

Main Results:

• The task force's recommendations were accepted by Mayo Foundation leadership.
• A master plan and governance structure for EMR implementation were established.

Conclusions:

• The EMR implementation plan at Mayo Clinic was formally initiated following the task force report.
• The EMR was envisioned to enhance patient care and support administrative, research, and educational functions.