| One of the first steps in implementing electronic | | | | software that can run on a practice's current |
| medical records is to find a system that supports | | | | operating system. |
| all the needs of a particular practice. While the | | | | Given the increasing complexity of electronic |
| capability of electronic medical record software is | | | | medical record software, it is essential to train |
| key, certain systems may offer appointment | | | | any staff who will use it. This will help ensure the |
| scheduling, billing or patient education software. | | | | system is correctly used, and will also help a |
| Understanding what is needed is critical in | | | | practice utilize a system's full potential. A practice |
| narrowing down choices from the large number | | | | should also ask a vendor about the cost and type |
| of options available. | | | | of technical support, hours such support is |
| Once certain packages are identified, a practice | | | | available, the time taken to reach someone in |
| can discuss cost. This will usually lead to a | | | | case of a problem, and typical response times. |
| discussion on the number of user licenses | | | | This may be particularly important for practices |
| required; some vendors offer discounts on | | | | with no information technology staff. Staff |
| additional licenses after the purchase of a first | | | | members also need to understand and fully |
| license. Another question to ask early on when | | | | implement policies to protect the confidentiality of |
| determining which electronic medical record | | | | electronic medical records. |
| system to implement is the type of computer | | | | While it takes some effort and reorganization to |
| operating system that supports it. Most electronic | | | | implement electronic medical records, the benefits |
| medical record systems are compatible with | | | | are well worth it. Reduced errors in entering or |
| Windows operating systems. Some are also | | | | interpreting records can lead to better patient |
| compatible with Macintosh, Novell, Linux and Unix. | | | | care. Electronic medical records don't take up |
| Since operating system software can be | | | | space, and can help save time and cost |
| expensive, it may be most economical to buy | | | | associated with filing of paper-based records. |