This is the most important topic for healthcare providers today. Growing competition in the EMR software industry has meant that there are too many choices and too much to lose if a practice remains with broken or disappointing EMR systems. There are several factors that may make an Electronic Medical Records software solution work for one medical practice, but not for another.

Healthcare providers work in different ways along with their staff. Therefore, they need an EHR system that does not disrupt their practice workflow and operations. Some may argue that disruption is inevitable when switching your EMR systems platform and especially when you’re converting from paper charts. However, a successful EHR software implementation does not disrupt the operations or impact the practice profitability.

Only a few EMR systems vendors have attained the experience and expertise required to achieve a flawless EHR software implementation with training and implementation staff usually sent on-site to the practice to assist with data collection and workflow optimization techniques. Vendors like Athenahealth Inc., Epic Systems, Cerner and Nextgen have been consistent performers when it comes to this exercise.

It is important to identify reasons that an EMR software may not be working properly before making the decision to switch EHR software vendors. If further training and discussion with Electronic Medical Records specialists or customer support staff from the vendor can improve matters, then it may be wise to consider this dialogue before committing to the switch. However, if the problem exists in the actual design of the EMR system or lack of medical specialty content in it, then it is best to commit to finding a viable replacement at the earliest.

When looking at options to replace your EHR software system, designating and assigning staff members is critical. It is best to identify a project manager with knowledge of EHR software solutions and issues faced with existing EMR software platform. Assign roles to other members of the staff to assist with the collection of data and taking on responsibilities to help during the implementation phase.

Researching EMR software systems online may be step one, but this information is insufficient to assess the reality behind how viable an EMR system may be for your practice. Speak to EMR software experts or EHR vendor specialists in identifying viable options and consider getting assistance until the selection and negotiation process is complete.