The authors of this practical guide share the expertise they have gleaned from helping more than 100 hospitals transition from the world of paper to the world of information technology. They provide advice both for healthcare executives involved in implementing a new system and for those who wish to optimize their existing system. This book is a comprehensive reference for the design, implementation, and optimization of electronic health records (EHRs). The authors offer a detailed road map for avoiding common pitfalls during conversion and achieving higher-quality care after system implementation. A glossary of important terms and references to additional resources are also included in the book. Key topics covered include: Budgeting for the design and implementation of an EHR system Selecting and deploying new hardware and software Organizing your governance model for EHR implementation Training clinical staff on the new EHR system and procedures Ensuring compliance with HIPAA and other privacy measures Managing formularies, order sets, and documentation in the changing electronic world