The CPOE system has already delivered significant value. It enables the real-time tracking of critical safety information such as patient IDs, adverse drug reaction reviews, recommended dosages and cross-checks for allergies. Patient safety has also been enhanced by providing a strong mechanism for identifying prescribing errors.
CPOE also provides benefits on the operational side. The system delivers statistical reports online so that managers can quickly analyze patient statistics and make appropriate changes to staffing and inventory. Audits can be conducted to ensure that patient privacy and confidentiality are properly protected, and to monitor utilization throughout the organization.
Those close to the project identify a number of key takeaways. “Having strong clinical leadership is the single largest factor to the success of an eHealth initiative,” said Roger Girard, CIO of Manitoba eHealth. To achieve this, planners collected and communicated evidence of improved care to clinician groups to gain their support and engagement. Planners also engaged clinicians in the development of evidence based content.
Participants in our study noted the need to develop contingencies to help the project remain focused and on schedule, as well as the importance of secure funding commitments. Maintaining momentum was highlighted as key, with experience showing that long lags between the first and second versions can often deter clinical champions.