Once a medical facility has decided to implement a new electronic medical records system (EMR), it’s essential to become familiar with the various software and hardware requirements that exist. The capabilities of EMR software systems are virtually limitless, and costs increase with the number of features a system has. For this reason, smaller practices can often get by with a less complicated, and therefore less expensive, EMR software system than a larger hospital or medical facility.

In order to determine your facility’s software requirements, it is helpful to perform a cost-benefit analysis that will help you choose between various available systems. In order to avoid costly purchasing errors, it is essential to choose a system that fits your budget and your needs prior to implementation. In general, it is typically best to look for EMR software that meets every current need but can also easily be scaled to meet future requirements.

When conducting a cost-benefit analysis for EMR software, begin by having a clear understanding of what you will need the software to do. For example, systems can often produce data regarding your facilities’ staff to physician ratio, the average number of calls you receive in a given time period and the patient capacity of the center, to name only a few.

It is also important to gauge the amount of training your staff will require, and to determine whether or not that service is included with the price of the software package. Inevitably, there will be a learning curve as everyone gets used to the interface and various features of the software, and any resulting hurdles are much more easily overcome when training is provided during the implementation process.

In addition to providing the software, providers will also configure all hardware to meet the needs of your facility. In many cases, practices will find they must purchase a significant amount of new hardware in order to meet the needs of running a digital recordkeeping system. Since it is essential to provide the proper support for the infrastructure of your new system, the price of things like new server stations, printers and computers should also be figured into the cost-benefit analysis. It is also prudent to consider the longevity of new equipment, so be sure to work with a reputable dealer who will provide direction, support and maintenance if necessary.

While all of this may seem a bit overwhelming at first, healthcare facilities and physicians can ultimately save time and money by doing extra legwork on the front end of the project. EMRs are beginning to revolutionize the way we provide healthcare, so be sure to ask the right questions and consult with an EMR expert before choosing a software system for your facility.