decisionhealth Newsletters, Part B News - 2010 Issue 6 (June)
6 EHR facts you must know before buying
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This article is a buyer-oriented overview for practices considering an electronic health record system. It explains the broad types of EHR deployments, common hardware and access assumptions, the value of peer-to-peer research, and how vendor claims are framed in the context of federal incentive programs. The piece is aimed at physicians, practice administrators, and other decision-makers who want to understand what to ask before selecting a system.
Why This Topic Matters
Choosing an EHR affects cost, workflow, infrastructure, and vendor relationships for years, so a basic understanding of system models and purchasing considerations can help practices compare options more effectively before committing.
Article Sections
-
Two types of EHR systems
Introduces the two broad deployment models discussed in the article and contrasts their general cost structure and support burden.
-
Client-server EHRs
Describes one common EHR deployment approach and discusses the general hardware and maintenance considerations associated with it.
-
ASP-type EHRs
Covers the alternative hosted-style approach and the general ways it differs in infrastructure, access, and vendor support.
-
Tablet computers aren't needed, or even common
Addresses the hardware devices typically associated with EHR use and notes the range of computer setups that may be supported.
-
The best research comes from talking to peers
Explains the value of speaking with similar practices and other customers when evaluating vendors and systems.
-
Meaningful use "guarantees" refer to the potential to achieve it
Summarizes how vendor assurances are commonly framed in relation to federal incentive expectations and contract terms.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames the main EHR deployment models
- What general hardware and connectivity considerations are discussed for EHR purchases
- Why peer feedback is emphasized in vendor evaluation
- How vendor assurances are presented in relation to federal incentive-era expectations
Who Should Read This
- Physicians
- Practice administrators
- Office managers
- Healthcare IT decision-makers
- Medical group purchasers evaluating EHR systems
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.


Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com