Difference between revisions of "Epic Systems"

Revision as of 07:36, 7 September 2009

Epic Systems was founded by Judy Faulker in 1979. Epic is an electronic medical records software corporation headquartered in Verona, WI. Epic applications are developed using MUMPS and Cache database structure[2]. The system allows a quick access to summary information about a patient. The patient's active medical problems, current medications, and drug allergies are among the core data that physicians must keep in mind when making any decision on patient care. The providers can easily find the newest individual result, in flowsheet format to highlight changes over time across mulitple variables, and in focused views tailored to specialties and settings.

KLAS has consistently rated Epic as one of the top healthcare IT companies in the world. In 2008, Epic was rated the #1 overall vendor and multiple other #1 ratings. Examples include Ambulatory EMR, Radiology, Pharmacy, and Acute Patient Accounting and Patient Management.

While it is a highly regarded EMR system, Epic Systems also garnered an unwanted amount of notoriety as a result of an engagement with Kaiser Permanente (KP) to develop and rollout KP's HealthConnect system. HealthConnect is a comprehensive EMR system that Epic Systems developed that empowers health care providers and patients alike. However, in November 2006 a project manager for KP raised a huge red flag by sending an alarming email that described projected losses of up to $7 billion dollars resulting from the HealthConnect implementation.(4) A publicity firestorm ensued for KP. In the end, though, HealthConnect has proven to be a successful system; KP recently received 12 awards from HIMSS Analytics for achieving the highest levels of EMR implementation.(5) Patients have also been pleased with the system which enables them to be more involved in the management of their own health issues.

Epic System have also inspired the development of clinical trial applications such as CTA (Clinical Trial Alert), at the University of Cincinnati, and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Ohio, using Epic's CDSS.

References

[1] http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-123006762.html

[2] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epic_Systems_Corporation

(3] http://www.epicsystems.com

(4) Robeznieks, A. November 11, 2006. Kaiser Permanente project manager discusses notorious e-mail. http://www.modernhealthcare.com/article/20061109/FREE/61109011

(5) HIMSS Analytics. (March 2009). HIMSS Analytics Stage 7 Award – Paperless and Proud of IT! http://www.himssanalytics.org/hc_providers/stage7Award.asp.