Albeit with good intent, organizations that hastily deploy EHR software without prerequisites – based solely on “Meaningful Use” criteria and timelines – can put the organization, clinicians and patients at significant risk.  

In spite of long-proven consequences, there is still a probability that some hospitals will set themselves up for failure by attempting to achieve Stimulus payments without simultaneously addressing EHR critical success factors.   Some of the known pitfalls here include applying new EHR functionality to existing (often broken) processes, employing clinical devices acquired for different care models and workflows, and neglecting to upgrade network and support level to “medical grade”.    

With a majority of our team having spent decades working in hospitals, it’s our firm belief that complex processes like Computer-based Provider Order Entry (CPOE) and Barcode-enabled Medication Administration (BCMA) require workflow enabling, ergonomic devices and a high performing network infrastructure. Selection of specific device types and combinations depend on care model, EHR support and specific processes supported by device(s) and other factors. Explicit requirements are based on user type and location as well as organization mandates, preferences and budget.

Once clinicians rely on an electronic system for patient care, it must be always be available, accessible and reliable 24 x 7.  This requires careful planning and budgeting for system support and maintenance so that the organizations’ scarce human and capital resources are in line to help the organization to succeed, rather than fail.