would run the risk of them not embracing the change in a manner in which you had anticipated. Set realistic goals. If there is more than one practice man-agement interface being implemented – such as scheduling and billing software for the administrative staff – consider the complete integration of one program at a time. A phased im-plementation is usually best. Create an implementation sched-ule with the assistance of your designated vendor account manager. It may not be necessary for all practitioners to be using the EMR system immediately. This will vary by practice. It may be wisest to implement change gradually, one practi-tioner type at a time, although this too may depend on your goals, desired time frame and the existing structure of your practice. Again, a plan that is clearly defined is one that will most likely succeed. Ask yourself a few fundamental questions as well. Is there any dysfunction in your team? Should this be addressed prior to attempting an EMR implementation? • • • Choosing the right vendor To select the ideal software vendor for your practice, you must define the criteria for your implementation by asking clear questions to ensure the system is the right fit for your practice and your requirements. • Is the program cloud-based or is it locally installed? • What sets this product apart from its competitors? Will it provide free hardware consultation? Can it offer a demo for each program of interest? Does it charge for extraction as well as conversion of your existing data? • Is it abiding by the requirements set out by your govern-ing body? • If cloud-based, will your data be stored in Canada? • How extensively is it able to customize the program to accommodate the methods you practice? Is the software mobile friendly? Which mobile devices is • the EMR software compatible with? • Is the vendor able to assist your team leader with the transition? • What is the timeframe for transition? • Is the vendor open to feedback? Aside from asking all the pertinent questions, it is also important to do your own research. Check for references, talk to your colleagues about the EMR software they’re using and, if possible, visit their clinics and see their EMR system in action. The world of health care is rapidly evolving. The electronic gathering of patient information is pre-eminent to the ad-vancement of the chiropractic profession. The aggregation of EMR data will further expedite the discovery of positive outcomes. Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College BACKS IN MOTION 10km Run & 5km Run/Walk SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2015 Silver Sponsors CMCC 32 nd Annual Join the Chiropractor Team Challenge and help CMCC support the profession. Register at: www.cmcc.ca/BacksinMotion For more information: 416 482 2340 ext. 200 or [email protected] www.canadianchiropractor.ca Media Sponsor ® Bronze Sponsors February 2015 Canadian Chiropractor 23
Chiropractic + Naturopathic Doctor February 2015: Page 23
