Jupiter Medical Center in North Palm Beach, Florida, successfully implemented its Epic electronic health record system on September 1, 2024. Kevin Olson, the hospital’s chief information officer, has been diligently working on optimizing the EHR to ensure it meets the evolving needs of the healthcare facility.
According to Olson, EHR optimization should be an ongoing process rather than a one-time project. He emphasizes the importance of continuously adapting workflows, addressing clinician requirements, and meeting patient expectations. To maximize the value of EHR optimization projects, Olson recommends following five best practices:
1. Engage clinical and operational stakeholders early and consistently.
2. Ensure each optimization initiative aligns with the organization’s broader goals.
3. Use a phased approach with measurable milestones and feedback mechanisms.
4. Consider future interoperability requirements and data governance.
5. Take a long-term approach to EHR management while balancing operational needs and technological advancements.
Physician alignment is crucial for the success of EHR optimization projects. Olson stresses the importance of involving physicians in the process to ensure that system changes align with their workflows and needs. Clinical champions play a vital role in bridging the gap between IT and clinicians, facilitating trust and encouraging adoption of new technologies.
Training and education are key components of successful EHR optimization efforts. Olson highlights the significance of personalized training for different specialties to ensure that healthcare providers fully utilize the system’s capabilities. Additionally, optimization initiatives should aim to reduce administrative burdens and enhance decision support tools to improve efficiency and patient care.
While technology plays a significant role in EHR optimization, post-optimization inefficiencies often stem from configuration issues rather than the technology itself. Automating routine tasks and integrating bedside tools can add value to optimization projects. Olson emphasizes the importance of education and usability testing before implementing changes to prevent frustration and ensure smooth adoption by healthcare providers.
Artificial intelligence (AI) can complement EHR optimizations by assisting with clinical documentation and decision support. AI technologies can save time, improve accuracy, and enhance patient care. However, it is essential to balance AI interventions to avoid disrupting workflows and ensure meaningful integration into existing processes.
Governance is critical during EHR optimization projects to maintain strategic alignment, sustainability, and accountability. A multidisciplinary governance committee can oversee optimization efforts and evaluate proposed changes to ensure they align with organizational priorities. Regular review cycles, clinician feedback mechanisms, and data-driven assessments help organizations assess the impact of optimizations and make necessary adjustments.
In conclusion, EHR optimization and governance are ongoing processes that require collaboration, transparency, and accountability. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, healthcare organizations can leverage EHRs as dynamic tools that support efficient healthcare delivery.
