Successful EMR Implementations

Whereas there are many group discussions and blogs depicting reasons why EMR Implementations fail, we like to focus on success rather than failure. As they say, planning is everything – implementing an EMR is not like buying a car – once you have made your selection (with the help of your advisor), your work is just beginning. To successfully move forward to and through the implementation one needs to be as prepared as possible, as well as set the appropriate level of expectation. For these reasons we have developed am EMR readiness Assessment & Planning Tool which can be accessed at the Resources Tab at www.emr-hit.com

EMR, State of the market; buyer beware

Considering the great influx of entries into the marketplace and the current pressure physicians are feeling to adopt an EMR I felt it an appropriate time to explain the state of the market. With 400 vendors now soliciting sales, the age-old sales tactics fall into play. The sales people are told, “It’s a numbers game, just get out there, schedule a demo, no matter what you have to say – we’ll close them!” Of course, this is done without a Site Analysis or EMR Implementation Strategy for optimum success, even when the vendor’s job is done. Every practice is unique, making it counterproductive to look at an “out of the box” solution. Then, there is the demo . . .they all look great during the demo. Demos are put on by professional demonstrators who can make everything look good – don’t be “Dazzled by the Demo”. What happens at 4:PM on Friday when you have a problem or your workflow gets bogged down because of the EMR or the training you did not get? The physician won’t be thrilled when his charting is taking an extra three hours a day.