Once you’ve selected and purchased an EHR / EMR system, installation, integration with practice workflow and EMR training are all still required for a successful outcome in the long run.
While many EMR system vendors either offer in-house services or have relationships with preferred outside EMR system service providers, some may want to hire independent EHR training consultants who can provide more customized training and ongoing assistance. You also may want to hire EMR Installation Consultants, who can help with the initial EMR installation.
Mapping your practice’s workflow is something that is done prior to EMR installation, but it is rare for the process to be perfect or complete on the first attempt. When installation is complete and you start using your EMR system, it is common to find that there are gaps in workflow handoff, unnecessary or duplicated steps, and a loss of efficiency as staff moves over to a new way of doing things.
It is also true that EHR training success is maximized if it is spread out over time, since questions naturally arise as staff get more experience with the new system and use more of the system’s feature sets. Also, your EMR system won’t live in isolation. While routine claims may be handled well and with immediate positive feedback, outside referrals, billings, and healthcare insurance claims can have cycle times measured in months, and if problems in these areas surface, they are likely to be more complex issues. Having EMR training consultants to aid in dealing with these ongoing system and staff issues can be of great help.
Likewise, there are HIPAA security and privacy rules that must be complied with, and a consultant with EMR training experience can make sure that your new workflow, systems, data storage, and system backup are HIPAA compliant.
There are no licensing exams to become EMR training consultants, but there are several professional certifications for Healthcare IT professionals, including The Certified Professional in Healthcare Information and Management Systems (CPHIMS) Certification offered by the Healthcare Information and Management Systems. Regardless of EHR training certification, it is important to examine the type and quality of EMR training work performed for other clients, as well as looking at the systems with which they have experience. EMR training consultants with deep experience in integrated client / server systems, for instance, may not be as familiar with technical issues that might arise with SaaS or cloud-based systems.
To find and hire EHR/EMR Training Consultants in the healthcare industry, consider these steps:
Identify Your Needs
Define your specific needs, such as:
- Implementation and migration support for EHR/EMR systems like Epic, Cerner, etc.
- Data migration and optimization services.
- Go-live support and post-live support.
- Training and adoption for different staff levels.
- Project management services.
Research Potential Consultants
Seek consultants with specialized healthcare industry experience. Start with firms like HealthTECH Resources, which offers a range of EHR consulting services, including training and adoption. Other organizations to consider are Medical Advantage, TrueNorth ITG, and Healthcare IT Leaders, known for EHR training and support tailored to healthcare organizations.
Evaluate Vendor Expertise
Select consultants with expertise in your specific EHR/EMR systems. HealthTECH Resources, for example, has experience with Epic, Cerner, and others. Compare top EHR vendors to ensure consultant experience aligns with your system.
Consider Freelancers or Contract Staffing
For flexibility, consider hiring freelance EMR experts through platforms like Upwork. Firms like Direct Recruiters offer contract staffing services for healthcare IT roles, suitable for temporary or project-based needs.
Check for Certifications and Compliance
Ensure consultants are certified and understand compliance issues, like HIPAA requirements, crucial for protecting patient data and avoiding legal issues.
Look for Comprehensive Training Solutions
Training is vital for EHR/EMR adoption. Companies like Medical Advantage offer robust EHR training solutions to help your organization meet standards and adapt to staffing changes.
Assess Their Track Record
Seek consultants with a proven healthcare industry track record. HealthTECH Resources, for instance, boasts 25 years of experience and a network of certified consultants.
Plan for Ongoing Support
Ensure the consulting firm provides on-demand support and assistance with payer reporting and incentive programs.
National Organizations and Resources
- Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS): Attend their conferences and tradeshows for networking and learning about EHR/EMR technology trends.
- American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA): AHIMA is a resource for finding qualified EHR consultants and staying informed about industry standards.
Conclusion
Choose EHR/EMR Training Consultants with specific healthcare experience, a proven track record, and comprehensive training and support capabilities. Large organizations like HealthTECH Resources, Medical Advantage, and Healthcare IT Leaders can be valuable partners. Additionally, engaging with professional organizations and attending industry conferences can aid in making informed consultant choices.