Thinking about making the switch to a new electronic health record (EHR) system? As local, city, and state correctional healthcare agencies begin to realize the need for change, it can prove challenging to identify the right EHR vendor, as well as the right data conversion path, that is most suitable for you. For many, it may seem that contracting with an EHR vendor that provides the best functionality is the only thing to consider while making the switch to a new system. However, the method in which the data is converted from the legacy EHR system to the new EHR system must be thoughtfully planned out and executed.
If you’re thinking about replacing your current EHR solution, consider the following questions to determine if EHR replacement is right for you:
How is your relationship with the vendor?
If needed, will the vendor commit to making the technological improvements in a reasonable time frame? If your vendor is non-responsive or slow to act on your questions, needs, and concerns, it is time to find a new vendor. It is critical — now more than ever — to have a relationship that is mutually beneficial and where they are committed to your success.
Is your current EHR vendor stable enough to be in business for the long haul?
New EHR vendors are coming to market every day. It is important that you choose a vendor who works specifically in the corrections industry, develops for the future of correctional health, and is financially stable. The last thing you need is to purchase and implement a system only to find out that your vendor is going out of business or is losing market share due to lack of technological advancements. Pick a big player in a big game.
Is your current system negatively impacting productivity and quality of care?
If your EHR system is not saving you time and negatively affecting the quality of care you’re providing, it is time to make the switch. Keeping an EHR that hinders performance will continue to reduce productivity and will only get worse as new health reform initiatives are released.
What penalties apply if you terminate the contract?
If you’re looking to make the switch before the contract expires on your current EHR system, review the termination clause to find out what it will cost if you decide to move ahead with a new vendor. This should not be a deterrent because in many cases it is well worth the cost.
It’s important not only to seek out a solution that satisfies your needs, but also one where the deployment is as quick, smooth, and painless as possible. Request demos from your considered EHR vendors, ask how long it will take for an implementation team to be set up for the project, and see if they will do the data migration for you. Once the switch is made and you’ve committed yourself to the new system, you should be capable of achieving operational cost savings, improving patient care, and contributing to a better workflow.
Fusion is a leading provider of health information technology products, services, and solutions for the correctional health industry that delivers creative and innovative solutions driven by information, technology, flexibility, and talented resources. Our flagship EHR solution is utilized by eight (8) State Department of Corrections agencies and manages over 300,000 patients in over 250 institutions, making Fusion the largest EHR provider for correctional agencies in the United States. Not only are we the go-to EHR provider for first-time buyers, we are also the industry leader in replacing and successfully migrating legacy EHR solutions in the correctional industry. Over the past three years alone the landscape has shifted dramatically, and we have received accolades for our system’s robust capabilities, our incomparable implementation services, and our exceptional support. Our knowledge and commitment to this space is unparalleled, and we continue to lead the way in EHR functionality for correctional agencies around the country.