Perform a Needs Assessment

Performing a needs assessment will make it easy to identify products that are suitable for your practice. The size and complexity of your practice will determine the level of detail required in determining your needs. Some factors to consider include:

• Workflow Constraints
• Features/Functionality
• Support/Training
• Hardware
• Consultative Services
• Compatibility
• Connectivity

In a small practice, it may be enough to mentally run through these issues. Ask yourself questions such as: How do patients move through my practice? What data do staff and I need? Who collects that data and how does it flow to those that need it? How are my staff and I going to be able to take the time to perform training? What help do I need to get an EHR into my practice?

In a medium-sized practice, you may need to write down the issues in each area and, as a group, work through what your needs are. It is especially important in medium-sized practices to look for "easy wins" that allow your practice to quickly see the benefits of an EHR. For example, could messaging or e-prescribing be implemented first and improve the efficiency of the practice? If so, they may smooth the way for the rest of the EHR implementation.

In a large practice, there is more of a need for a formal process to define the practice's needs. This may include flow diagrams of patients, data, and staff. It may also include mapping of clinical and business processes.