Firstly, clinical outcomes are the quality of care and patient safety (Menachemi & Collum, 2011). According to Menachemi & Collum, “EHRs, especially those with CDS [Clinical decision support] tools, have been empirically linked to an increased adherence to evidence-based clinical guidelines and effective care” (2011). One such example includes “computerized reminders [sent] to physicians increased the use of influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations from practically 0% to 35% and 50%” (Menachemi & Collum, …show more content…
When looking at the financial issues, it includes the cost of maintenance, ongoing maintenance, and loss of revenue associated with temporary loss of productivity. These issues primarily present a disincentive to hospitals and physicians to adopt and implement EHRs (Menachemi & Collum, 2011). Other barriers to consider when implementing EHRs include the enormous amount of time and training required for novice users, and the presence of a champion leader which is a critical factor in implementing EHRs (Terry et al., 2008).
For the full potential of EHRs to be realized, it first needs to be implemented by the government to transition a maximum number of providers to EHR adoption. Experts believe that without ubiquitous use of EHR technologies, the full potential of it will never be realized (Menachemi & Collum, 2011). As stated by Menachemi & Collum, the solution to the technological and logistical obstacles to achieve meaningful use of EHRs include, “[committing] US$650 million for the establishment of a network of up to 70 regional health information technology extension centres” (2011). This is a necessary step forward in the implementation of EHRs