Choosing a core vendor and foregoing best-of-breed technology entirely can actually cost hospitals more money for a multitude of reasons.

Added staffing costs may result from a deficiency management system that does not enable the facility to monitor the complex rules governing the physician suspension process, including tracking notices sent to physicians, warnings, pre-warnings and suspension communication. As a result, HIM staff may be forced to perform this task manually to ensure that Joint Commission requirements and standards are met.

Facilities may encounter other unexpected or hidden costs. For example, best-of-breed vendors build flexibility, content expertise, and workflow analysis into their products. They typically provide a broad range of options for facilities to customize these products themselves to meet their own specific needs. In contrast, core vendors tend to offer a “one size fits all” approach that may not suit a hospital’s needs. Many core vendors will offer customization, but often at a very high price. Some may require hospitals to use the vendor’s own consultants for customization work or consultants who are certified in how to use the vendor’s particular products. This practice can present added costs for hospitals.

A better-informed EHR decision process

Given the importance of the HIM function, facilities should capitalize on the expertise of their HIM professionals to help choose the Electronic Health Records solution that will both yield long-term success and also enhance revenue cycle and clinical documentation improvement efforts.

When evaluating any type of core or best-of-breed vendor, asking the right questions is critical. For example:

Does the vendor employ HIM content experts with operational experience?
Determine whether the vendor employs experts who are well aware of the unique challenges the HIM department faces, as well as its workflow needs.

Does the vendor’s workflow engine also apply to HIM?
Determine whether it applies to the entire suite of products or only to the clinical applications. Ask whether the vendor performs an on-site workflow assessment.

Does the vendor’s HIM offering allow customization to enable staff to work the way they prefer to work?
Determine whether the products offer the flexibility to allow staff to easily customize them after the formal implementation process. If not, what is the typical fee for special customization?

Does the vendor interact frequently with HIM staff during the rollout process?
Does the vendor propose ways it can customize its HIM products to accommodate the hospital’s unique needs? Determine whether the type of training offered is appropriate for the facility’s requirements. Is it structured as a single “train-the-trainer” session, or will the vendor train an entire group of employees? What type of post-implementation support does the vendor provide?

Does the vendor have a track record of delivering rapid software implementations?
Best-of-breed applications can often be implemented in a matter of months, while core vendor solutions may require extensive time commitments.

Does the vendor communicate often with its hospital clients?
Does the vendor host customer user group meetings where clients can meet face-to-face with vendor staff members and share best practices with other clients? Is there a client steering committee that provides direction for the vendor’s important technology-related decisions?

The best decision could be best-of-breed

For healthcare facilities, balancing institutional priorities has always presented a greater challenge than for other types of organizations. The implementation of an Electronic Health Record – with its high price tag, myriad decisions, long lead time and impact on every function within the hospital – can make that challenge even greater. Choosing a strategic best-of-breed approach can enable hospitals to achieve their important institutional goals without having to sacrifice the operational effectiveness of HIM and other key stakeholders.

 

Strategic “Best of Breed” Approach Ensures EHR Success

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Perception #3: It’s most cost-effective to choose one core vendor to provide all the applications for hospital functions.