EHR Replacement Simplified

By Katie Wike, contributing writer

Replacing an electronic health record system can be a huge decision. What are the factors your organization needs to consider, and how do you know you’ve chosen the right one?

One in four ambulatory care providers plan to replace their current electronic health record (EHR) system. Another 12 percent told KLAS they would like to switch to a new vendor but just don’t have the funding.

If your organization is among those looking to make the switch, what factors should be considered when choosing a new EHR vendor? EHR Intelligence reports the following are important considerations:

1. Cost: Just how much is this new system going to cost your organization? Don’t forget that many EHR prices don’t include additional fees for certain kinds of required hardware, interfaces, networking, training, and go-live support resources.
2. ROI: It’s important to think about more than just initial cost when it comes to getting a return on your EHR investment. EHR Intelligence explains, “The presence of various incentive programs, namely the EHR Incentive Programs, provides a unique opportunity for eligible providers to receive federal funding through the meaningful use of certified EHR technology (CEHRT). The amount of these incentives, however, depends on when an eligible hospital or professional begins their meaningful use journey. As such, if a vendor cannot deliver their products and services within tight windows, EHR adopters stand to lose dollars.” Some primary care clinics are seeing their initial investments recovered in as little as 10 months.
3. Usability: Information Week’s David Carr writes, “I was surprised how unanimously and passionately dissatisfied most doctors are with the usability of this software, which they see as draining rather than enhancing their productivity.” Don’t let your organization become a hostage to a clunky EHR which drains physicians and monopolizes their time. Make sure the solution you choose is user friendly and easily navigated. Customizable options are best since no two clinicians are alike.
4. Vendor Reputation: “If EHR adopters are choosing a product because of meaningful use, they should get assurances from the EHR vendor that the latter will continue seeking certification and compliance with future EHR certification criteria,” writes EHR Intelligence.

For more guidance selecting an EHR, consider the upcoming Allscripts webinar, Selecting an EHR Replacement ... Beyond Meaningful Use, scheduled for 1 p.m. ET on Thursday November 6. This presentation will cover mandatory EHR Criteria in today's environment, how to ensure the EHR solution is right for your individual practice, EHR features all practices need in the shift to value based care, and a live Q&A session.