EHR Success Stories

"Despite the time and effort streamlining workflows and training everyone, the benefits of using a paperless EMR system more than outweigh the time commitment and the money spent."

Benefits:

We are a private group practice with 9 neurologists, 4 mid-level providers, a neuropsychological and a PT department with offices in several different locations. About 3 years ago, we decided to implement an EMR to improve patient care and safety, and to reduce our liability risk. Before the EMR we always had problems finding charts and having the right chart at the right place depending on where the patient was being seen. Communications with referring providers was hampered by long turnaround times for transcription services and again the inability to locate certain charts in a timely fashion (i.e., when the referring physician is on the phone with a question).

At this point in time we are virtually paperless. The benefits include:

• Improved patient care with reduced risk of medication prescription errors
• Patient charts are always accessible to providers and staff
• Referring physicians receive the consultation immediately (i.e., often the same day)
• Liability risk has been reduced due to electronic documentation of patient communications
• Providers have immediate, secure access to patient charts from anywhere (with Internet access)
• Test results are available at the push of a button and are chronologically organized for quick access
• Reduced costs due to fewer medical records and transcription staff, outside services, postage, and stationery
• Medication refills are electronically faxed to pharmacies, cutting down on time spent on the phone, and avoiding problems with legibility