Flipping the Script: Lessons from a Small Hospital EMR Implementation
Tracks
Track 2
| Thursday, July 24, 2025 |
| 2:30 PM - 2:50 PM |
| Bradman Theatrette |
Overview
Presenter: Briannah Lewis
Speaker
Ms Briannah Lewis
Digital Health Trainer / Business Analyst
Western Health
Flipping the Script: Lessons from a Small Hospital EMR Implementation
2:30 PM - 2:50 PMAbstract
Introduction:
The implementation of Electronic Medical Records (EMR) generally follows either a big-bang approach or a phased, incremental strategy, where smaller sites go live first, followed by then medium and larger sites (Owens, 2008). This presentation examines the distinct experiences focusing on workflow adaption, staff engagement and technical integration during the implementation of an EMR at two smaller hospital sites, several years after successful rollouts at larger facilities.
Main Body:
At the outset, it was expected that the current EMR design from the larger hospital would seamlessly transfer. With project progression, the understanding of the smaller site's unique culture and needs grew. A high level of engagement led to a large attendance of nurse and midwife unit managers at training events and meetings. This approach fostered a stronger sense of connection and collaboration, enhancing understanding of the challenges faced by each unit.
To address the identified gaps and ensure compliance with patient safety and quality standards, a decision was made to extend the implementation timeline. A dedicated project manager was appointed to oversee the process, and new system builds were developed to accommodate the unique workflows of the smaller site. Additionally, the team maintained a continuous onsite presence, offering support, strengthening partnerships with consumers, and ensuring staff felt fully supported throughout the transition. This approach led to a successful go-live, with outstanding feedback and rapid adoption.
Conclusion:
This experience highlights how courage, compassion, and connection are key to a successful EMR implementation, even when the organisation’s actual needs differ from initial expectations. A tailored approach and collaborative efforts enabled a smooth transition and positive outcomes for the smaller hospital. This project emphasises the importance of adapting strategies to fit the unique needs of healthcare settings and showcases the vital role of a supportive, responsive team in driving success.
The implementation of Electronic Medical Records (EMR) generally follows either a big-bang approach or a phased, incremental strategy, where smaller sites go live first, followed by then medium and larger sites (Owens, 2008). This presentation examines the distinct experiences focusing on workflow adaption, staff engagement and technical integration during the implementation of an EMR at two smaller hospital sites, several years after successful rollouts at larger facilities.
Main Body:
At the outset, it was expected that the current EMR design from the larger hospital would seamlessly transfer. With project progression, the understanding of the smaller site's unique culture and needs grew. A high level of engagement led to a large attendance of nurse and midwife unit managers at training events and meetings. This approach fostered a stronger sense of connection and collaboration, enhancing understanding of the challenges faced by each unit.
To address the identified gaps and ensure compliance with patient safety and quality standards, a decision was made to extend the implementation timeline. A dedicated project manager was appointed to oversee the process, and new system builds were developed to accommodate the unique workflows of the smaller site. Additionally, the team maintained a continuous onsite presence, offering support, strengthening partnerships with consumers, and ensuring staff felt fully supported throughout the transition. This approach led to a successful go-live, with outstanding feedback and rapid adoption.
Conclusion:
This experience highlights how courage, compassion, and connection are key to a successful EMR implementation, even when the organisation’s actual needs differ from initial expectations. A tailored approach and collaborative efforts enabled a smooth transition and positive outcomes for the smaller hospital. This project emphasises the importance of adapting strategies to fit the unique needs of healthcare settings and showcases the vital role of a supportive, responsive team in driving success.
Biography
Involved in EMR Go-Lives across a dozen health sites, and a sessional lecturer in Digital Education, Briannah Lewis has been training for a decade and is passionate about empowering nurses to embrace change with digital health expertise.
