However, you can’t guarantee that productivity will automatically improve at your medical organization simply by installing an EHR system. If your team isn’t fully equipped to use the software or doesn’t understand all its capabilities, you might find they are experiencing EHR productivity dips. Fortunately, you can identify problem areas and overcome them.
Select an Appropriate EHR System for Your Practice
If you haven’t yet transitioned from a paper-based system to an EHR system on your computer network, take the time to research your available software options. It’s best to go with a software developer that has a proven track record in the medical field.
Don’t try to shoehorn a particular EHR software if it won’t provide you with the capability your office requires. For example, a gastroenterology practice will do better with specialized EHR software instead of software that’s intended for use in a family practice. A gynecology practice will have different needs than a neurologist’s practice, and so on.
Take Advantage of Training
Sometimes people are too proud to ask for help or are actually unaware of how little they know when it comes to using new software. It’s of vital importance that you take full advantage of all training opportunities, so that you can ensure your staff will have a complete understanding of how to use the software.
You will need to take a good look at your current methods of processing patients and then identify the key aspects of the EHR software in terms of how they will affect your workflow.
Now is not the time to skimp on training.You might have to budget in additional time for training, and if your staff is already being pushed to the limit, temporary assistance could be just what you need to give your team the time they need to learn all the ins and outs of the software.
Measure and Analyze Productivity
Before you setup your EHR system, measure the productivity of your staff and analyze how productive they are. Then, conduct the same observations and analysis after the staff has undergone sufficient training to see how productive they are.
Encourage Teamwork
Some members of your staff are likely going to be more computer-literate than others, and some people will learn faster than others when you offer them EHR training.
Take advantage of those who know the most and let them assist other members of the team. This will ensure a smoother transition.
Medical practices seeking to boost their bottom line by improving efficiency will find it highly beneficial to use EHR software. The only way to ensure that you are getting the most out of EHR applications is to select the best software for your organization, participate in training and keep track of productivity.
Key Takeaways
- Medical practices should understand that boosts in productivity with EHR software will be difficult to realize if the best application for the practice’s specific needs is not selected.
- Training is crucial for maximizing productivity with EHR software.
- Measuring productivity before implementing EHR software, and then testing during its use is the only way to get a true idea of how effective it works in your organization.
- Teamwork can help smooth out the rough spots. Some of your staff will naturally be more capable than others when it comes to software, and they can help those who have less expertise.
