by Maura Cash, RN, BSN, CASC | Jun 12, 2022 | EMR/EHR, HST eChart

Electronic health records (EHRs) are finally making themselves a must-have in the Ambulatory Surgery setting. However, convincing some physician owners of the value of this change is not always a walk in the park. We often encounter scenarios where clinical staff, business office managers, and other stakeholders are ready to switch from paper to electronic charting, but their owners are saying no. This information may help change their outlook.

Here’s a very high-level, step-by-step guide.

• Step 1: Gain a full-picture view of your physician owner’s concerns.
  Understanding where they’re coming from is going to be essential. What are their main concerns? More times than not, it comes down to cost, but are there other reasons? Take detailed notes to help you stay organized and focused.
• Step 2: Gauge internal interest.
  Discuss with your clinical team and others who would be using an EHR day in and day out. Are they on board as well? What concerns do they have? Do any of them have EHR experience?
• Step 3: Engage trusted EHR vendors to help you.
  The ASC industry has several different EHR options. They all vary slightly in terms of features and functionality, but what shouldn’t vary is their willingness to help you present your case to your physician owners.
• Step 4: Do your research and prepare a presentation.
  Now that you have a bulleted list of what’s holding them back, it’s time to create a clear and concise presentation addressing every concern. Speak their language and stay focused on everyone’s end goal – improving the bottom line, workflow efficiencies, and patient care.

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