Program Management

Implementing a new system can be a challenge for any organization. Coker offers project management assistance for implementation, drawing from our years of experience and expertise. We will work with your practice and the vendor to ensure a smooth transition. This full service includes:

• Key Decision Guidance - As part of undertaking this venture, decisions need to be made prior to system implementation. These decisions will need to be made at various levels of the organization including administration, medical, and technical.
• Workflow Analysis - Coker can assess the current paper workflow and recommend needed transformation into the new electronic environment.
• Master Project Plan - Coker will work with the practice to create and execute a master plan that incorporates all the elements of the implementation.
• Policies and Procedures - Often new policies and procedures need to accompany the changing landscape.
• System Optimization - Coker can aid the practice to actively pursue system optimization in order to realize their return on investment (ROI).

Preparation is the key to any successful project implementation. In the case of implementing an Electronic Health Record ("EHR") system, preparation would begin with a comprehensive review of your "present state." Coker's analysis of a practice's "EHR Readiness" involves three specific metrics:

1. Information Technology ("IT") Infrastructure
   EHR systems require a certain amount of technologic support, which includes expertise, facilities, equipment, and communications.
2. Provider and Staff Attitudes
   Change is uncomfortable for everyone and the use of an EHR system will fundamentally alter virtually all aspects of how a medical practice operates. Users must be open to change to gain full value out of any system in which they invest.
3. Business Operational Workflows
   If a practice automates a poor workflow, they will only guarantee that they will do the same wrong thing, more consistently and efficiently than ever before. Also, many workflows which are appropriate in a paper-based world are simply not optimal for operating, electronically.

Coker reviews a practice in detail and renders specific and applicable recommendations to prepare a practice to convert to use of an EHR. Coker's recommendations and assistance also include:

• Project Return on Investment ("ROI")
• Vendor consideration and selection
• Contract negotiation
• Training and ongoing support
• Project plan development and management