Difference between revisions of "The Value of Electronic Health Records in Solo or Small Group Practices"
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== Study Data and Methods == | == Study Data and Methods == | ||
| − | A retrospective qualitative case study was done on fourteen solo or small-group primary care practices in twelve states. | + | A retrospective qualitative case study was done on fourteen solo or small-group primary care practices in twelve states. The study included a semi-structured interview process carried out on self-identified EHR champions, direct observation of providers using the EHR software, and a review of vendor contracts and practice reports. Quality improvement (QI) activities were also examined. |
== Study Findings == | == Study Findings == | ||
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| + | [[How to successfully select and implement electronic health records (EHR) in small ambulatory practice settings]] | ||
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Latest revision as of 04:33, 19 November 2015
Contents
Introduction
Electronic Health Records (EHRs) are greatly beneficial to the healthcare system, but there is little insight in their costs and benefits in ambulatory care systems like solo or small group practices. The article reports on case studies carried out on fourteen solo or small-group primary care practices using EHR software from two vendors, in order to determine the costs and benefits. [1]
Study Data and Methods
A retrospective qualitative case study was done on fourteen solo or small-group primary care practices in twelve states. The study included a semi-structured interview process carried out on self-identified EHR champions, direct observation of providers using the EHR software, and a review of vendor contracts and practice reports. Quality improvement (QI) activities were also examined.
Study Findings
This study found that “initial EHR costs averaged $44,000 per full-time equivalent (FTE) provider, and ongoing costs averaged $8,500 per provider per year.” [1] It also found that the average practice largely profited after the EHR costs were paid in 2.5 years. However, some practices could not cover the costs fast enough, while other practices experienced considerable financial risk.
Discussion
Practice factors affecting costs and benefits were discussed and identified as: practice use of the EHR; Pre-EHR characteristics; EHR champion and practice culture; group size and duration of EHR use; EHR vendor software and support; and data exchange/interfaces.
My Comments
EHR systems are necessary in today’s healthcare system. However, it is essential for a healthcare institution to determine the cost to benefit ratio of particular software prior making the investment to purchase it from a vendor. It is especially crucial with small group practices. I believe this article helps one better understand the benefits and costs of implementing an EHR system.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Miller, R. H., West, C., Brown, T. M., Sim, I., & Ganchoff, C. (2005). The value of electronic health records in solo or small group practices. Health Affairs, 24(5), 1127-1137.
