Results of Implementing EHR Software

EHR platforms are powerful systems that consolidate client health data into digital records. Each year, more and more behavioral health and human service organizations are utilizing EHR systems to advance the way they provide care, as well as streamline key workflows for the agency. We’ve compiled a list of the benefits of utilizing an EHR platform, as well as some key considerations for successful adoption within your organization.

Quantifying the Benefits

A study by the Behavioral Healthcare Executive uncovered some specific advantages of EHR software, including:

• Improved client care
• Decrease need for paper storage
• Improved staff efficiency
• Improved reimbursement rates
• Better outcome tracking
• Time savings

Other commonly noted benefits include:

• Improved client data accuracy
• Interoperability
• Scalability
• Customization
• Increased revenue
• Better security

An astounding 94.4% of those surveyed by Behavioral Healthcare Executive reported advantages from EHR software. It’s no surprise the adoption of this technology continues to increase every year.

Qualitative Improvements Lead to Quantitative Results

The truth is, EHR software’s benefits go beyond efficiency and increased revenue. Less staff frustration, decreased burnout, more time spent with clients instead of on documentation, fewer errors; the list goes on. The qualitative benefits are compounded over time, which saves money. For example, customized templates for taking notes on specific services will lead to fewer errors, less documentation time, and fewer rejected claims.

As payers shift their focus to value-based reimbursements, these qualitative improvements lead to improved outcomes and happier clients, which helps agencies meet these updated care mandates.

Key Considerations Before Adopting an EHR

The key to successfully adopting an EHR system is to get buy-in from all areas of the agency. Clinicians care about efficiently entering progress notes and keeping track of client information so they can provide better services. Billers want to avoid denials and get the agency paid on time. EHR admins care about system utilization, reliability, and limitations. Executives are more focused on meeting state requirements, managing staff retention, and using data to solve agency challenges. Each persona in the organization has key metrics to meet and an EHR helps them to measure and improve.

By evaluating the workflows that will be improved by an EHR, you will be able to determine the return on investment and gain the support of staff in every area of the business. You’ll also be in a better position to choose the right EHR solution.