Partnering with clinical providers to enhance the efficiency of an EMR.

Implementing an electronic medical record to replace paper records and associated processes does not guarantee the benefits of an EMR will be achieved. Specifically, it can introduce steps into a provider's work flow that adversely affect the projected benefits of efficiency, and, ultimately, quality and safety. At Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, implementation of the Mayo Integrated Clinical Systems, or MICS, the organization's EMR, is nearly complete. However providers perceive inefficiencies in their work flow using MICS. In response, a study was undertaken to enhance MICS and associated processes to improve provider efficiency. Through direct observation and feedback from 101 providers, this study identified seven major themes for enhancements: training; work flow and processes; dual environments; navigation-viewing integration;patient-reported information; clinical problems management; and consolidated medication documentation. This paper reviews the methods used to collect and analyze the data and discusses how improvement opportunities can positively enhance efficiency in using an EMR.