Research recent (within the last 5 years) Electronic Health Records (EHR) implementation issues by searching online or within the Rasmussen library. Discuss at least 2 issues identified, such as healthcare providers’ issues (physicians, nurses, and other users). Explain the challenges. How could these be mitigated? What do you think should be done? Reflect from your own experiences if you have encountered challenges, either professionally or as a patient, with EHR.
Please make your initial post by midweek, and respond to at least one other student’s post by the end of the week. Please check the Course Calendar for specific due dates.
PEER RESPONSE
wo issues with Electronic health records are staff resistance and lack of full implementation, leading to lost productivity. Generally speaking people have a difficult time adjusting change, especially within the work environment. Resistance from change from the clinical and support staff to the board members and stakeholders. It is essential that the EHR implementation process is delivered with a promotion and marketing plan to champion the change.
When implementing a new EHR system a reduction in staff productivity should be expected and anticipated. Workflow efficiency reduction and number of patients seen., This needs to be communicated to your practice staff. Additionally, administration should prepare for potential overtime pay and the need for additional support.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
Electronic Health Records (EHR) have become an integral part of the healthcare system in recent years. EHR has many advantages, including improved patient safety, treatment accuracy, and quality of care. However, there have been many issues related to EHR implementation, including staff resistance and difficulty with full implementation. In this response, we will discuss at least two issues related to EHR implementation, including healthcare providers’ issues and the challenges related to these issues. Additionally, we will explore mitigation strategies and necessary steps to resolve these issues.
Answer:
Two issues identified in recent EHR implementation are staff resistance and lack of full implementation. Staff resistance is because people generally have a difficult time adjusting to change, especially within the work environment. Resistance from clinical and support staff to board members and stakeholders is another issue. It is essential that the EHR implementation process be delivered with a promotion and marketing plan to champion the change. This can help to ensure that all staff members are excited and motivated to make the transition to EHR.
Another issue is the lack of full implementation, which can result in lost productivity. When implementing a new EHR system, a reduction in staff productivity should be expected and anticipated. This can lead to workflow efficiency reduction and fewer patients seen. It is necessary to communicate this to practice staff and prepare the administration for potential overtime pay and the need for additional support.
To mitigate these issues, administrators should adequately prepare staff for the change and provide adequate training and resources to make the transition smoother. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that the implementation process is not rushed and that all potential issues are thought through and addressed accordingly.
In conclusion, EHR implementation issues can be challenging, but by addressing the root causes, administrators can overcome them and create an efficient and effective EHR system. It is necessary to involve all stakeholders in the implementation process, to ensure that the process is not rushed, and to provide staff with the necessary resources and support to make the transition smoother.
