EMR Implementation

Learn How to Manage a Successful EMR Implementation

EMR implementation can make or break the successful adoption by providers. This is especially critical when a provider is enrolling in one of the CMS EHR Incentive Programs. If a provider is not able to (or doesn’t want to) meaningfully use EMR, the chance of securing incentive reimbursement is greatly reduced. Review the tips below to help you plan for a successful EMR implementation. Also, consider downloading our FREE EMR Implementation White Paper to help you plan a successful launch, adoption and meaningful use of EMR.

Select an EMR vendor early

Keep in mind that the larger payouts in the early years of the programs are meant to encourage EMR early adoption and meaningful use. In order to secure maximum reimbursement from the incentive program, don’t wait to select your EMR vendor. Many vendors are experiencing backlogs with an influx of new clients eager to take advantage of the incentives. Selecting an EMR vendor early will allow for the required time to successfully manage the implementation project, ensure training in meaningful use features and allowing time for providers to monitor their success with meaningfully using EMR.

Select an EMR to meet the specialty’s needs and objectives

Selecting EMR that meets every need of a healthcare organizations can be challenging. And selecting an EMR that every provider will want to use is even more daunting. Opt for an EMR that is easy to use yet powerful. EMR shouldn’t be rocket science. While enterprise-wide systems have the bells and whistles built in for large hospitals and healthcare systems, those bells and whistles may prove to be overkill for physician practices, with the result of confusing users with unnecessary functionality. And, with the variance in how each specialty practices medicine, it’s hard to find any one system that meets the needs of all. Look for an EMR that has flexible content and functionality, meets the needs and workflow of your specialty and that will help achieve your organizational objectives.

Select an EMR that will help achieve meaningful use objectives

With other 400 EMRs in the market today, providers have the daunting task of selecting a software that will not only meet their specialty workflow needs, but that is also committed to ensuring it will have the required functionality through all the stages of meaningful use. The software is just Part 1 of the story. Providers should also look to partner with an EMR vendor that has a integrated, strong practice management software, established implementation and training programs and a reputation for providing ongoing support and product upgrades. Contact vendors to request initial demos to determine if it is a fit for your specialty, as well as your organizational size, type and objectives.

Plan. Plan. Plan for implementation.

EMR implementation is a commitment in itself. Achieving meaningful use requires that the commitment be even stronger. From the front office staff, to the EMR implementation project manager to the providers, physician assistants and nursing staff, everyone should have input in designing the new electronic workflows that will help the organization be more efficient and ensure achievement of meaningful use.

Work with your EMR vendor to design tailored implementation and training programs based on your specialty and your individual organization’s needs. Also keep in mind to never underestimate the value of training in EMR implementation and ongoing use. EMR is the tool, but would you buy a rocket ship without knowing how to operate it? The consequences could be monumental. Also, it is important to appoint designated “EMR Champions” in the organization that will be responsible for helping others train, adopt and consistently use the EMR, meaningfully. If a Practice Administrator or another non-provider staff member is in place to lead the EMR implementation, consider also enlisting a “Provider Champion” to ensure the needs of the entire office are met.

Monitor. Monitor. Monitor provider meaningful use.

This is especially critical in the first years of achieving meaningful use when the requirements are new to everyone. No provider wants to face a situation in which they assumed they were correctly using the EMR to meet meaningful use requirements, only to learn that they are not able to attest to meaningfully using the EMR when it comes time to request a reimbursement. How can this situation be avoided? With a well-planned implementation and the establishment of consistent, periodic monitoring. Determine which requirements are being met and which are not. Devise a correction plan to achieve those requirements not being met. Retrain staff as needed. Enlist super users to help train others. Monitor again. Lather. Rinse. Repeat.

Have questions, e-mail stimulus@micromd.com