Case Study: Document Scanning Makes An EMR Whole

oving to an EMR (electronic medical record) system doesn't always result in a paperless utopia where complete patient information is available electronically with the touch of a button. In fact, oftentimes, the transition to EMR technology creates a recordkeeping nightmare where both electronic and paper information must be managed in tandem. This scenario is all too familiar to Arapahoe/Douglas Mental Health Network (ADMHN).

ADMHN is a nonprofit community mental health center serving Colorado residents in Arapahoe and Douglas counties. With 10 locations and 250 employees, ADMHN provides mental health services, substance abuse services, and a full range of residential programs. Unlike most healthcare facilities, ADMHN was an early adopter of EMR technology. The facility purchased its EMR system way back in 2001 and was surprised when the technology didn't fully eliminate the need to maintain paper records.