My practice does not currently utilize an EHR. When is the right time to start planning for an EHR implementation?
If you have not already started the process of implementing a system, the time to start the process is now. The transition to a new EHR system can be a timely process, especially with the added requirements of meeting the meaningful use criteria for the incentive payments. Typically, the time requirement of a successful EHR implementation increases in proportion to the size of the group. Due to the fact that only about a quarter of the market has already implemented an EHR system and that many EHR vendors had installation waiting lists prior to the stimulus act, it will be a challenge for the industry to handle the implementation of the non-early adopters in a timely fashion. Physicians who wait may have little chance of qualifying as an early adopter.
