How to Choose or Change an Electronic Health Record System

Nurse practitioners across the United States use or are about to use electronic health record (EHR) systems while having minimal input into EHR purchase decisions. The EHR system can affect provider and patient satisfaction, reimbursement, and other aspects of practice. Most EHR planning tools focus on hardware and software needs, rather than the process used to identify the right product; however, the EHR may fail if an inappropriate process is used. Ten elements essential to purchase and implement an EHR system and the steps to take if the current EHR does not meet practice needs are reviewed.