Hospital Buyer

Transitioning to a completely electronic records system is not an option for all hospitals or healthcare providers; implementation of such is an expensive and time-consuming endeavor. An alternative option which may prove appealing to hospitals, in particular, was highlighted at the recent meeting of the Healthcare Information Management Systems Society (HIMSS), the Summit 2007.

The Deputy Director of Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, Raymond Gensinger, Jr., M.D., described the utility of “hybrid” records systems, which entails both digital and paper files for health records. Two options exist within this category: electronic records and a paper chart or an electronic record that uses document imaging technology.

Dr. Gensinger noted the inherent challenges of adopting a system that attempts to completely eliminate paper. Some materials, such as consent forms, will likely continue to be paper-based for some time. Facilities, too, must contend with system downtime.

However, both Gensinger and Andrew Mellin, M.D. from McKesson Healthcare speculate that unwillingness to adopt electronic records is short sighted. The two insinuate that electronic health records will take over the marketplace and healthcare facilities may be better off by just taking the plunge.

Mellin, vice president of Advanced Clinical Technology at healthcare IT giant McKesson refers to an overall transition to a paperless system as the big bang approach. He suggests that such an effort will likely foster quick and easy adoption and integration of solutions while minimizing disruption to the normal workflow. Such, however, requires demonstration that transition to a paperless records system is a key priority by administrative officials.

Related stories:

• EMR Study Dispels Myths
• Guidelines for Electronic Record Acquisition
• TEPR Awards Announced
• IRS Allows EHR Assistance
• Kaiser Survey Highlights Concerns about IT

July 2, 2007 Related topics: General Management & Administration, Conferences & Events