What are the 10 most important things a practice can do to prepare for a successful EHR implementation once the decision has been made?
- Contract- review in detail and ask Account Manager if there are any questions.
- Designate a clinic leader/point of contact for Implementation.
- Decide upon tentative Go Live date. Work with the vendor’s implementation leader to plan key milestone dates to achieve planned Go Live date.
- Hardware- Review hardware requirements and compare to planned equipment. Order and install any additional hardware. Utilize vendor’s support team to assist with recommendations.
- Work with the vendor’s support team to review and document clinic workflow.
- Interfaces- PMS, Labs, etc. Provide name of software, version number and vendor contact for PM and other systems. Contact lab and other vendor representatives to request their end of interfaces.
- Download/install vendor applications when provided by vendor. Ensure all users have been set up.
- Complete the customization information and submit timely to vendor. Review training manuals. Provide clinic logos and standard letters.
- Set aside dedicated time and attention for training as scheduled. Unfocused, rushed and inadequate concentration on training is the best way to ensure a bad transition. The time dedicated to training will be well worth it when it leads to a smoother Go Live and transition to EHR. Training should be completed as closely as possible to the anticipated Go Live date.
- Call vendor implementation coordinator immediately with any questions or concerns.
Sonja Jimenez, Implementation Specialist