Change can seem like an unconquerable hurdle when it comes to the workplace. There are many variables that affect your staff and yourself, and those variables can extend as far as your revenue and the quality of your work. Implementing electronic software is a massive task with many moving parts, and it can be stressful getting the new program up and running. But with the right game plan in place, this monumental task can be executed smoothly and efficiently.
1. Converse. Have lots of conversations with your staff, the people who will be using the mental health EMR software, and the software company. An implementation plan is excellent, but without communication, it remains that: a plan. To successfully execute that plan, you need help from all sides, so make sure the appropriate staff are involved and have a voice in the process.
2. Test accounts. Find out if the software includes test accounts, or if test accounts can be made. These false accounts will give your staff the chance to put all that training into action and provide them with the opportunity to make and correct mistakes. By using test accounts, your team gets a feel for how the program works without affecting actual data.
3. Start small. If possible, go live with a small caseload. No matter how thoroughly prepared you are, mistakes will happen. If you go live with every single client and you have issues with billing, your payments could be held up for weeks, until you figure out what the problem is. By starting small, you can uncover the issues you will face, work on correcting them, and give your staff the chance to further learn how to use the software.
Keep these tips in mind as you approach your new mental health EMR software, and you’ll find it much easier to tackle the process.
