Top EHR Implementation Challenges and How to Overcome Them

April 5, 2023

Electronic health records (EHRs) have become an essential part of healthcare. They have revolutionized the way medical information is collected, stored, and accessed. However, successful implementation of any EHR system is not an easy task.  

From potential data security issues to Information Technology (IT) infrastructure challenges, lack of user adoption, and more, any EHR implementation can open the door to a host of challenges. Here are the top challenges of EHR implementations and the solutions to overcome them. 

EHR Implementation Challenge #1: Healthcare Compliance

Healthcare organizations must comply with a range of regulatory requirements such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinic Health (HITECH) Act.

These regulations impose strict requirements on the handling and storage of electronic patient information, which can add complexity to the implementation process.

Solution: To overcome these compliance challenges, your organization must ensure you have a thorough understanding of the relevant regulations and develop policies and procedures that are compliant with these regulations.

Engaging a third-party compliance expert such as one of our healthcare compliance consultants can also help ensure that the implementation is compliant with all applicable regulations.

EHR Implementation Challenge #2: Data Security and Privacy

EHRs contain sensitive patient information that must be protected from unauthorized access, theft, or loss. With the unprecedented amount of cyberattacks, healthcare organizations can fall victim to hacking due to poor network security and other issues. These security breaches can result in profound consequences, including legal action and loss of trust from patients.

Solution: Your organization must ensure your EHR system complies with the HIPAA and HITECH regulations, which mandate the privacy and security of patient health information.

Furthermore, you should implement robust security measures, such as access controls, encryption, and regular security audits. Your organization should also ensure that employees are professionally trained in the importance of maintaining patient privacy and security.

EHR Implementation Challenge #3: IT Infrastructure Challenges

Technical challenges can arise during EHR implementations if there is not a sufficient IT infrastructure in place to support the system. Technical issues such as integration with other systems, data migration, and connectivity issues can cause delays and may require additional resources to resolve.

 Solution: To overcome IT infrastructure challenges, your organization must first assess whether your infrastructure can support the EHR system, and whether it meets the performance and availability requirements.

With many overstretched IT departments, investing in a resource such as an experienced IT consultant can prove to be a tremendous asset to your organization.

A key advantage of leveraging an IT consultant is that they can perform a thorough assessment of the existing infrastructure and identify any gaps or deficiencies prior to implementation.

They can also assist with system integration, data migration, connectivity issues – all while making certain the EHR implementation process goes smoothly. 

EHR Implementation Challenge #4: Resistance to Change

One of the biggest challenges of an EHR implementation is the resistance to change. The implementation process often results in a significant shift in workflow, which can create resistance among healthcare providers and staff. Resistance to change can also lead to low adoption rates and a lack of enthusiasm for the new system.

Solution: To overcome this resistance, it is important to implement an effective change management strategy at the beginning of the project to ensure all goals are met on time and within budget.

This includes involving employees in the implementation process, communicating the benefits of the new system, addressing staff concerns, and encouraging buy-in. Then provide adequate training and post go-live support to help providers and staff adapt to the new system.

EHR Implementation Challenge #5: System Integration

Integrating EHRs with other healthcare systems, such as laboratory or radiology systems, can be a significant challenge. Integration requires standardization of data formats, communication protocols, and interfaces, which can be difficult to achieve.

Solution: To overcome system integration challenges, engage vendors early in the implementation process, and clearly define the requirements for system integration. Also, to help ensure successful integration, establish a strong governance framework so that there is a clear understanding of each stakeholder’s roles and responsibilities.

EHR Implementation Challenge #6: User Interface Design

Data entry and documentation are time-consuming processes and can lead to burnout among providers and staff. Particularly, if the user interface design of EHR systems is too complex and difficult to use, this will lead to user frustration and decreased efficiency.

Solution: Your organization should consider an EHR system that has user-friendly interfaces that are easy to navigate and understand. This can be achieved by involving end-users in the design process, conducting usability testing, and ensuring EHR systems have efficient data entry and documentation features that are easy to use and do not disrupt clinical workflows.

EHR Implementation Challenge #7: Integration with Clinical Workflows (User Adoption)

EHRs must integrate seamlessly with clinical workflows to avoid disrupting healthcare providers’ established routines. Even if an EHR system is implemented successfully, it may not be utilized fully if users are not trained on how to use the system effectively.

Solution: To ensure your providers and staff are maximizing the value of the new EHR system, your organization must develop and implement a comprehensive quality training program and immediate go-live support.

This requires careful consideration of how the new EHR will be integrated into clinical workflows. This is followed by the creation of user manuals, conducting training sessions, and providing technical support to ensure the system will be utilized to its fullest potential. This can be a daunting task so if you need assistance, our EHR implementation services can deliver expert EHR training and support. 

John Lynch & Associates – EHR Implementation Specialists

We have decades of experience guiding hospitals and practices of all sizes with the implementation process. Our EHR consulting services deliver proven strategies that drive system adoption, improved clinical workflows, and return on investment for your healthcare organization.

For more information on how we can assist with your EHR implementation needs, fill out our contact form or contact us at 623.980.8018.