EMR Implementation Training

One of the things that always surprised me was the level, or lack thereof, of basic computer skills that existed within most providers’ offices. This low level of computer skills existed not only with office personnel, but also with doctors and nurses. Therefore, when implementing new computer software a lot of time was spent providing basic computer training in addition to software specific training.

With EMR implementation it’s highly critical that both medical and office personnel are trained on EMR systems. If they are not properly trained they will become frustrated, and possibly, unproductive. An unproductive doctor and/or nurse in a clinical setting is not a good thing. If that happens it could sabotaged the best of EMR implementation projects.

Keep in mind that no two providers are alike and work flow processes differ from one provider to another, here are a couple of training recommendations when providing EMR training that are applicable across the board. First, access the computer skills of everyone that will be using the new system. If basic computer training is needed, include it in your training curriculum. When providing basic computer training take nothing for granted, heck, you may have to teach keyboarding, how to operate a mouse, etc., just be prepared to get the users up to speed on the most basic of computer skills. Secondly, provide one-on-one training when feasibly possible. I found one-on-one training works best for this set of users, especially for smaller to medium sized providers. If this is not possible, try to have at least one experienced (or a well-trained user) to support every two doctors during the initial days of “go live.” And thirdly, require ALL medical personnel to attend training, even if it means night and/or weekend training sessions. This may require flexibility on your part to accommodate everyone’s schedule, but it will be time well spent to have trained doctors/nurses using the system on day one of “go live” versus doctors/nurses doing OJT on the day of “go live”...

Remember the best way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time, so save yourself a headache by implementing EMR in phases. Implement only one process at a time before turning up the next process. Because if glitches are caused by implementing an EMR system, i.e. billing, clinical, prescriptions, etc., the emergency system just may get activated (see cartoon)...