EHR DESIGN AND ASSESMENT

EHR Design and Assessment
Name
Institution
EHR Design and Assessment
Health facilities that are planning to create an electronic health record or are considering to upgrade an old system have some crucial considerations that they should take into account. EHR systems are a very expensive investment that should be made after doing a lot of in-depth research to ensure that the right and the most economical product is chosen. The health information managers in such a facility should ensure that they keep in track with their objectives by asking themselves to evaluate the usability and the screen layout of a proposed system (Torrieri, 2011). The following are examples of the questions that they can use to assess a proposed system.
1. Does the system integrate with other products or soft wares like billing systems, management software, and public health registries? Customization.
2. Does the vendor of the system integrate the ideas presented by the users? Customization.
3. How does it ensure security, privacy, and backup of my files? Performance.
4. Is training provided to the staff until they fully understand the system? User needs and input.
5. What support will the facility receive after and during implementation? User needs and input.
6. Have there been failed implementations or systems that have been replaced within 24 months of their deployment? Performance.
7. Is the system easy to understand and use, even for the staff who are not tech-savvy? Usability.

8. How often are new features or updates released? (Torrieri, 2011), and are they charged or free? Customization.
9. Can the system meet PQRS standards? Performance.
10. What is the minimum length of time for health centers to get running with the EHR system? Usability.
11. How easy is it to navigate the system’s interface? Are the most important features quickly accessible on demand? User interface and screens.
12. How often does the system develop issues that require the staff to reach out to the vendor for help? Performance.

ReferencesTorrieri, M. (2011, July 6). 20 Questions to Ask Your EHR Vendor. Retrieved from http://www.physicianspractice.com/ehr/20-questions-ask-your-ehr-vendor