Bid farewell to data headaches and embrace a seamless transition between Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems! Moving to a new Electronic Health Record (EHR) can feel like scaling Mount Data Everest, but fear not, brave healthcare hero. This cheat sheet is your trusty sherpa, guiding you through the tricky terrain of data conversion and migration.
Before You Begin
- Investigate how both your current and future EHR systems handle data export and import. Is it a database dump, APIs, or file transfers? The sooner you understand, the smoother the migration.
- Do not assume that all data is easily transferable. Scrutinize your data to ensure it meets the new system’s requirements, as not all elements may seamlessly make the journey.
- Don’t rely on cumbersome claim transfers. Wrap up outstanding accounts receivable in your old system before making the switch.
- Schedule your migration around holidays to minimize disruption and give your team (and the data!) breathing room.
Conversion Strategies
- Embrace a phased approach. Move demographics, appointments, and master lists first. Clinical data can wait (gasp!). This lets your team and the new EHR prioritize and get you online ASAP.
- Conduct multiple tests, running trial conversions on small patient samples (say 30 patients). You’ll unearth issues before they become mountain-sized problems.
- Consider retaining temporary access to your old system for reference purposes. It’s like a safety net for those “oh, I forgot that!” moments.
- Not everything needs a new home. Utilize an archival system for data you don’t need in the new EHR.
Data Essentials
Ensure a smooth migration by prioritizing the transfer of the following essential data:
- Patient Information: Demographics, insurance scans, policy details, historic charges/balances.
- Appointments: Both past and future appointments, meticulously organized.
- Master Lists: Categorize and transfer insurance providers, referral sources, and other relevant lists.
- Clinical Data: Chart PDFs, discrete text data, allergies, medications, problem lists, immunizations, and progress notes.
- Procedures: Transfer detailed information such as CPT codes, modifiers, and pre-authorization codes.
- CCDAs: Acquire the Summary of Care document, a valuable data repository.
- Financials: Limited financial data may be transferred, but confirm the specifics with your new EHR to ensure accuracy.
Bonus Tip: Make a list of all your EHR integration points like FHIR,HL7 V2, APIs, CSV files. Don’t leave any data orphans behind!
But fear not, weary traveler! You don’t have to climb this mountain alone. We’re here to help with expert guidance, proven strategies, and a team of data Sherpas ready to tackle any conversion challenge. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s turn your EHR migration into a smooth and stress-free journey!
Remember, with the right plan and a helping hand, even the mightiest data peak can be conquered.