In the early stages of the EHR strategy, the RWJBarnabas Health organization gathered subject matter experts (SMEs) into councils and discipline-specific workgroups to make decisions about system functionality and workflow. In total, 62 SME workgroups made decisions pertaining to the health system. The Epic Together project was born of this interdependence. The Epic Together project is a reflection of the RWJBarnabas Health EHR strategy.
Integration of Epic across the enterprise
Integrating Epic into an enterprise infrastructure is a challenging task. The software has to run on many different platforms and be able to handle a high volume of traffic. However, this can be done by implementing a single implementation model. The software will then automatically migrate operations to the backup site and reinstate them when the issue is resolved. However, this is not always possible. To make integration of Epic easier, the software provides the following features.
Integrating Epic with OnBase creates a single patient-centric record. Users will have access to unstructured content, such as images and pathology results, without having to manually export them from one system to another. This means that Epic users can spend more time acting on information instead of searching for it. They will also benefit from the system’s ability to streamline workflows and communication. This way, they’ll be able to work more efficiently and reduce call volume.
Integrating Epic with OnBase is a great way to streamline routine tasks. OnBase is a system that seamlessly integrates with Epic and offers extensive coverage. It will also help to eliminate information silos and allow for streamlined workflows for health services. A recent example of such an integration is the North Georgia Health System in Georgia. This healthcare system successfully underwent a double upgrade of its Epic EHR. As a result, it has achieved HIMSS Stage 7 EMRAM accreditation.
The Epic system is widely used in large health systems and hospitals throughout the United States. The company has over ten thousand employees and invests heavily in R&D. It offers an integrated suite of health-care applications, including patient record management, access and revenue management. Epic is at the forefront of patient record interoperability and exchanges 3.4 million patient records each month. Many large hospitals, including Kaiser Permanente, Allina, and Mayo Clinic, use the system to manage their health records. The interoperability features of the Epic system allow accurate data exchange, enhancing efficiency, and improving communication among doctors.
With the USCDI API, Epic EHR and software developers can access patient data and process it in their own apps. The USCDI API is a standard that regulates data classes and constituent data elements. With this standard, the EPIC EHR and software can connect to each other and provide a seamless patient experience. It is important to integrate with the USCDI API. This is a common approach for developers of health care software and medical applications.
The Epic EHR platform has become so popular that the company is investing heavily in its product suite. The company has more than 250 million patients’ records. In addition to Epic’s enterprise EHR, Lyft has teamed up with EHR vendor Allscripts for a similar integration. Their integration allows physicians to request non-emergency transportation via a single platform. Uber has also collaborated with EHR companies and has integrated its platform into Cerner’s medical records system.
Challenges in the build phase of the EHR strategy
There are several major challenges to be faced during the build phase of an EHR strategy. One of these challenges is determining what kind of system to implement. It’s essential to analyze the existing technology landscape, including which hardware or cloud-based system will be used. Changes to the IT landscape must not affect the interoperability of data, or else it could hamper overall operational efficiency. The following are some of the challenges that you will need to address.
Organizational Change. Implementing an EHR system requires a cultural shift throughout the company. As such, it requires extensive planning and commitment from all stakeholders. Successful implementation requires detailed planning and continuous monitoring of the new system. EHR implementation can’t be accomplished without effective communication. Ensure all stakeholders are committed to the change, and create a communication strategy to deal with any problems and concerns. This strategy should include a strong health IT vendor partner to provide the necessary support and help your practice navigate this process.
Improving patient care. A major challenge in EHR implementation is the ability to import data from one system into another. Data entry can be labor-intensive, time-consuming, and difficult for staff. In addition, data entry may be difficult or impossible in a different format. Moreover, an organization may still need to maintain its legacy system for several years even after the transition to an EHR strategy. It may be required for legal reasons or records access.
Improving workflow. EHR implementation is supposed to provide a steady workflow, but if it is not customized, it can mess up the workflow. A vendor should demonstrate how EHR implementation will benefit a practice before signing on with them. A detailed project plan will also allow for adherence to budgets. Involve key stakeholders in the project planning process. The earlier you engage stakeholders in the project planning process, the better.
Providing training. No EHR implementation is successful without the right trainer. You need to select someone who can sell the idea of using new software and will inspire staff to use it. If possible, pick someone who has been involved in the entire EHR implementation process. It is also helpful if the trainer has been a member of the project team. He or she should be someone who can coordinate IT needs and business needs.
Implementing EHR systems can be costly. The cost of hardware and software, including implementation assistance, training staff, network fees, and maintenance, will require a large chunk of an organization’s capital budget. Further, the implementation of an EHR system will require ongoing investment for continued operation and maintenance. In addition to the upfront costs, there are also unplanned expenses that can arise during the implementation process. One of the biggest hurdles to successful EHR implementation is securing the finances.
Epic’s Gold Stars program helps improve clinical and financial outcomes
The Epic Honor Roll is a program that awards hospitals that adopt the company’s algorithms. Hospitals are rewarded for using Epic’s tools and receive hundreds of thousands of dollars – almost a million dollars – as a result. Although this money may seem small, it can add up to a lot. Some researchers are concerned that such financial incentives could lead to a conflict of interest.
The Epic Gold Stars program recognizes organizations using the Epic system for improving clinical and financial outcomes. The program measures the adoption of Epic Together software by hospitals around the world. It also measures how well an organization uses its Gold Star features, such as Clinical and Billing Cubes, SlicerDicer, and Fast Pass. Other features of Epic Gold Stars are used to enhance patient care.
The Epic Together team managed to work around the demands of being a parent, partner, and homeschooler. The team was able to overcome obstacles including pet craziness, crying babies, and homeschooling. This success allowed the team to exceed expectations by 40%. Even when they worked at home, the Epic Together team was able to remain focused, and even work when other family members were on call.
The benefits of using Epic are numerous. Its functionality is incredible and makes it easy to customize for your individual needs. You can customize phrases and drop-down menus to make your information more relevant. It’s also a great solution for organizations that have large amounts of data. However, it will take time for clinicians to adjust to using Epic. However, it will be worth the effort.
Another feature of Epic that improves clinical and financial outcomes is its Healthy Planet module. This program helps providers monitor quality and cost. It also prioritizes patient-centered care. Aside from helping doctors monitor patient-centered care, Epic’s Healthy Planet software also collects data on patient health, allowing them to better manage patient populations and reduce financial risk. Moreover, it also gives them access to a 360-degree patient view.
The Gold Stars program also rewards providers that use Epic in a meaningful way. For example, Epic is dedicated to training physicians to improve patient care. The Gold Stars program has helped many physicians become certified Epic trainers. These professionals have the expertise to teach colleagues how to use Epic. In addition, they can also serve as an advocate for another specialty by providing feedback to the Epic project team. If you’re looking to implement Epic, consider becoming a Specialty Champion. You’ll be rewarded with a higher reimbursement and improved clinical and financial outcomes.
