Multidisciplinary Sprint Program Achieved Specialty-Specific EHR Optimization in 20 Clinics

Abstract

Objective The objective of the study was to highlight and analyze the outcomes of software configuration requests received from Sprint, a comprehensive, clinic-centered electronic health record (EHR) optimization program. Methods A retrospective review of 1,254 Sprint workbook requests identified (1) the responsible EHR team, (2) the clinical efficiency gained from the request, and (3) the EHR intervention conducted. Results Requests were received from 407 clinicians and 538 staff over 31 weeks of Sprint. Sixty-nine percent of the requests were completed during the Sprint. Of all requests, 25% required net new build, 73% required technical investigation and/or solutions, and 2% of the requests were escalated to the vendor. The clinical specialty groups requested a higher percentage of items that earned them clinical review (16 vs. 10%) and documentation (29 vs. 23%) efficiencies compared with their primary care colleagues who requested slightly more order modifications (22 vs. 20%). Clinical efficiencies most commonly associated with workbook requests included documentation (28%), ordering (20%), in basket (17%), and clinical review (15%). Sprint user requests evaluated by ambulatory, hardware, security, and training teams comprised 80% of reported items. Discussion Sprint requests were categorized as clean-up, break-fix, workflow investigation, or new build. On-site collaboration with clinical care teams permitted consensus-building, drove vetting, and iteration of EHR build, and led to goal-driven, usable workflows and EHR products. Conclusion This program evaluation demonstrates the process by which optimization can occur and the products that result when we adhere to optimization principles in health care organizations.

The influence of a Sprint optimization and training intervention on time spent in the electronic health record (EHR)

“…Sprint has removed key barriers to EHR optimization and employed facilitators including dedicated resources, connection with users, informaticist leaders, and strong engagement. 17 , 18 , 25 , 26 …”

Application of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research Model to Design and Implement an Optimization Methodology within an Ambulatory Setting

“…Facilitators of the EHR optimization process included a clear vision, committed leaders, dedicated resources, stakeholder engagement, and workflow analysis. 9 Within the context of the CFIR model, the organization development team was part of the outer setting and supported the knowledge transfer and provision of tools and resources during the optimization methodology implementation. The inner setting, comprised of the clinical pilot department, was accountable for the execution and success of the intervention.…”

Sprint-inspired One-on-One Post-Go-Live Training Session (Mini-Sprint) Improves Provider Electronic Health Record Efficiency and Satisfaction

“…A "sprint" training program represents an intensive engagement between an expert physician informaticist (PI) and the provider trainee who is insufficiently familiar with the electronic health record (EHR). [2][3][4][5][6] The process of streamlining tasks and resolving problems in the EHR through the use of clinical informatics and technology resources is known as EHR optimization. 7 EHR optimization is necessary to reduce physician burnout, which is costly to the health care system medically and financially.…”