How Long Does EHR Implementation Take?

Implementing an EHR system is a complex, long-term endeavor that requires careful planning and the dedicated involvement of your entire staff. But exactly how long does EHR implementation take?

The most accurate answer is: it takes however long it takes. EHR implementations require careful attention to many variables; the more details there are to tend to, the longer the implementation may take. Getting it right is better than getting it fast.

Still, there are things that you can do to shorten the process. Understanding the main drivers in an EHR implementation will allow you to identify and focus on those activities that will get you to the finish line faster, with the highest amount of confidence in your new system and its ability to transform your chiropractic practice.

How Long Does EHR Implementation Take?

The timeline of an EHR implementation will vary based on the size of your practice, the processes that need to be converted, the number of people to be trained, and other factors. Chiropractic EHR implementations are unique because chiropractic practices are typically smaller, with less complex workflows to interpret and map.

Due to the variability, there is no specific rule of thumb, resulting in a wide variety of estimates. Some put the timeline at sixty to ninety days; others estimate six to nine months. Some larger systems have been known to take sixteen to twenty-four months.

Regardless of the length of time, all EHR implementations require careful attention to planning for maximum success.

Your implementation timeline will depend heavily on the ultimate objective for your EHR system. You need to know where you are heading to identify the issues that most need your attention.

Optimizing the Timeline of Your Implementation

Successful implementation plans work toward an ultimate destination, when the system goes live and begins delivering measurable benefits.

While you cannot afford to rush a system into operation, certain activities can help optimize the timeline.

• Test, test, and test more. Take your time before going live with your new EHR installation. It will not be like turning on a light switch. Devote time to testing the new system, module by module, if needed. Bringing the system online gradually allows you to gain the confidence that you need to make the change when the go-live day arrives.
• Build a comprehensive training program. Start with super users who can carry the message further on to your team. The sooner they know about policies and practices, the sooner you can get running. Simulate a patient walkthrough to understand real scenarios and how to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Concentrate on data migration. EHR systems consolidate disparate processes from disparate technological systems into a single application. It’s essential to make sure the data you need to transfer is in a format that enables seamless migration. Make sure your implementation includes a data migration strategy.
• Develop a communications plan. It’s important to keep everyone informed, patients and employees included. Hang signs in the waiting room and the hallways alerting patients to the change. Send letters if needed. It’s important to build patient confidence in the new system. Your people also have to know what is happening.

Addressing the Variables of Implementation

A new EHR system introduces new variables into your workflow, some of which you can plan for and others that you can’t. The team behind ChiroSpring understands that it takes time to master all facets of a new system properly.

The ChiroSpring application is designed by chiropractors who recognize the demands placed on a daily practice. The platform aims to reduce the burdens of the back office so your team can focus on patient care. It is also built in a modular way, so it can grow with your practice when you are ready.

Leveraging their domain knowledge, the ChiroSpring team provides the training and support to get your people up to speed, at a pace that makes sense, to create the greatest potential for streamlining your practice.

The ChiroSpring application has features that include online scheduling, online intake, appointment reminders, billing, claims, ERA auto-posting, SOAP notes, and care plans.

Implementation is not an activity to be rushed. But ChiroSpring can help condense the time frame based on experience and lessons learned from previous installations.

Transform Your Practice with ChiroSpring

ChiroSpring, trusted by more than 4,000 users, is a solution developed specifically for chiropractors that helps you save time, control costs, and improve profits. The ChiroSpring team will use their experience in chiropractic care to build a careful implementation plan that will bring you these benefits when you are ready and a timeline so you will no longer have to wonder how long does EHR implementation take.

ChiroSpring is an all-in-one practice management and EHR system built specifically for chiropractors to help them regain face-time with patients, spend less time on back-office tasks, maintain a limited staff, and save operational costs.

To see how ChiroSpring can help you simplify how you manage your practice, reach out to one of our specialists today!