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| Issue 9 • May/June 2008 |
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The EMR Checklist: Critical Steps to Consider Before You Take the Leap and “Go Live” |
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| Choosing the right practice management and electronic medical records software is one of the most significant business decisions you’ll make. However, before you take the leap from paper-based documents to an electronic system, it’s important to factor in several critical steps that can make or break a successful installation. |
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| Select the Right Server, Workstations and Ancillary Equipment |
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Always refer to your EMR vendor’s hardware and software system recommended lists; only use equipment and operating systems that your EMR vendor supports and tests. |
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Use high quality hardware and exceed hardware minimum requirements (processor speed, hard drive space, RAM, etc.) to stay ahead of advancing technology—focus on your future needs, not just immediate. |
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While wireless networking provides greater convenience, it often provides lower performance and reliability than hard-wired networks; ask your EMR vendor for advice. |
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Discuss ancillary equipment requirements with your EMR vendor before you purchase equipment, such as high-output laser and label printers, barcode, insurance card and document scanners, and high-density removable backup devices. |
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Hire a Microsoft® certified hardware and networking technician to assist you with all installations, networking, and upgrades—always follow-up with references. |
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Ask your EMR vendor if your diagnostic equipment is compatible with your EMR system and can easily transfer readings to a patient record. |
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| Create a Data Backup and Recovery Plan |
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Before you select your backup devices, consult with a certified hardware and networking technician about the backup data size you will need and how to arrange for backup and disaster recovery. |
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Have at least one local backup and arrange for offsite storage of your backup media files. Without data backup, recovery is impossible! |
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Offsite backups are an inexpensive insurance against catastrophic events, such as fire, flood, natural disasters, a virus, or the deliberate hacking of your data. |
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| Plan for Installation, Training and Ongoing Support |
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Invest in expert onsite training for you and your staff—factor this into the cost of your EMR software. Select an EMR company that has a complete training package and customer support, including early morning and Saturday support. |
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Close your office the first day you install your new software; reduce your patient load the following day. |
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Book appointments lightly during your initial onsite training so doctors and staff can focus on a “hands-on” approach. |
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Avoid a long delay between training sessions and the go-live date. |
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Give staff time to get used to the new software; don’t learn too much too quickly while juggling a full patient schedule. |
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Implement modules gradually, starting with the basics, such as scheduling and billing. |
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Provide on-going training and support. Make sure staff knows where they can get answers to questions; whether through training guides, an office power user, or vendor customer support (toll-free support, online support, email, Webinars, and personalized phone trainings). |
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Tip: Put a label on each workstation with vendor “help desk” phone numbers, emails, or online support information. |
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| Print this page |
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| CE Course Sponsored by First Insight, Booth 637 |
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Optometry’s Meeting
Seattle, Washington
EMR 1-Hour CE Course
Thurs, June 26, 2008
3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. |
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Title: How EMR Made My Practice a Success: A Day in the Life of an Integrated Practice |
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Lecturer: Kelly Kerksick, OD |
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Course Description:
Details how EMRs can enhance the quality of patient care and improve the overall management of an optometric practice. Dr. Kerksick will draw on her experiences as a practicing optometrist and review the realities and challenges of adopting an EMR system. Learn what to look for, how to evaluate EMR vendors, how to set realistic and measurable goals, and what to expect as you move through the buying and deployment stages. |
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| First Insight Quick Links |
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www.first-insight.com