Paper Assignment 2 Using Your Exploration From Paper 1

Paper Assignment 2using Your Exploration From Paper 1 Choose One 1

Using your exploration from paper 1, choose one (1) way to use health information technology to address your identified community health-related issue and describe the process of implementation in a chosen context. Paper should be approximately 5-6 pages, (not including title or reference pages). It is to be written in APA format. The following information needs to be included in the paper: 1. Introduce your idea and identify the context of how your HIT idea will be used 2. Discuss theoretical support for your idea 3. Identify a goal for your idea and three (3) objectives 4. Detail strategies you will take to implement your idea 5. Discuss anticipated barriers to implementation.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction and Contextualization of the Health IT Idea

Building upon my exploration from Paper 1, the selected approach to utilizing health information technology (HIT) involves deploying a comprehensive electronic health record (EHR) system aimed at improving diabetes management in a underserved urban community. This community faces significant health disparities, including limited access to consistent healthcare and poor disease management outcomes. The context for this initiative involves local clinics and community health centers, where implementation of the EHR system can facilitate better data sharing, patient tracking, and personalized care. The goal is to leverage technology to enhance patient engagement, streamline healthcare processes, and ultimately improve clinical outcomes related to diabetes control.

Theoretical Support for the HIT Approach

The theoretical foundation for adopting an EHR system aligns with the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), which posits that perceived usefulness and ease of use significantly influence users’ acceptance and utilization of health IT innovations (Davis, 1989). Furthermore, the Diffusion of Innovation Theory (Rogers, 2003) provides insight into how new technologies spread within communities and healthcare settings, emphasizing the importance of early adopters, relative advantage, and compatibility with existing workflows. These theories support the premise that engaging clinicians and staff through training and demonstrating the advantages of EHR can facilitate smoother adoption. The EHR’s capacity to support clinical decision-making through real-time data access also aligns with models emphasizing evidence-based practice enhancements, thereby promoting sustainable integration into daily routines.

Goals and Objectives of the Health IT Initiative

The primary goal of deploying the EHR system is to improve health outcomes for individuals with diabetes by enhancing disease management, data accuracy, and patient-provider communication. To achieve this, three specific objectives have been identified:

  1. Increase the rate of accurate and timely documentation of patient health information in the community clinics by 30% within the first six months of implementation.
  2. Improve patient engagement and self-management by integrating patient portals, aiming for at least 60% of diabetic patients registered within the first year.
  3. Reduce hospital readmission rates for diabetic patients by 15% within the first year through better monitoring and intervention facilitated by the EHR system.

Strategies for Implementation of the EHR System

Implementation strategies revolve around a phased approach beginning with stakeholder engagement, staff training, and infrastructure upgrades. The initial phase involves conducting needs assessments and involving clinicians, administrators, and patients to identify barriers and expectations. Subsequently, comprehensive training sessions on the EHR’s functionalities are delivered, emphasizing user-friendliness and clinical benefits. Pilot testing within select clinics allows for real-time feedback and iterative adjustments before broader rollout. Ongoing technical support and change management initiatives are critical, including appointing champions within clinics to foster acceptance and troubleshoot challenges. Additionally, community outreach programs to educate patients about the benefits and use of patient portals are vital for maximizing engagement and usability.

Anticipated Barriers to Implementation

Several barriers may hinder successful EHR implementation, including resistance to change among staff accustomed to paper-based records, concerns about data privacy, technical infrastructure limitations, and potential costs associated with system upgrades and training. Resistance can be mitigated through effective change management strategies, including continuous engagement, demonstrating value, and involving staff in decision-making processes. Data privacy concerns require adherence to HIPAA regulations and transparent communication about security measures. Limited technical infrastructure may necessitate phased upgrades or partnerships with local technology providers. Cost concerns can be addressed through grants, federal funding, and demonstrating long-term savings and improved outcomes that justify initial investments. Anticipating these barriers allows for proactive planning to minimize disruptions and ensure sustained success.

Conclusion

In conclusion, leveraging health information technology—specifically through the implementation of an electronic health record system—offers a strategic opportunity to address the disparities and improve health outcomes for underserved populations with diabetes. Grounded in relevant theoretical frameworks, the initiative’s success hinges on clear goals, well-defined objectives, and strategic implementation. Recognizing potential barriers early enables the development of targeted solutions, ensuring the sustainability and efficacy of the health IT intervention, ultimately fostering healthier communities through innovative technology-driven solutions.

References

  • Davis, F. D. (1989). Perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and user acceptance of information technology. MIS Quarterly, 13(3), 319-340.
  • Rogers, E. M. (2003). Diffusion of Innovations (5th ed.). Free Press.
  • HIMSS Analytics. (2020). Achieving Digital Transformation in Healthcare. HIMSS Media.
  • McGinn, C. A., et al. (2016). Effective implementation of health information technology: a systematic review. Implementation Science, 11(1), 147.
  • Peek, R., et al. (2014). Increasing engagement and self-management among diabetes patients through health IT. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 16(4), e89.
  • George, J., et al. (2018). Integration of electronic health records and clinical workflows: barriers and facilitators. BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making, 18, 36.
  • Institute of Medicine. (2011). The Future of Nursing: Leading Change, Advancing Health. The National Academies Press.
  • Blumenthal, D., & Tavenner, M. (2010). The "Meaningful Use" regulation for electronic health records. New England Journal of Medicine, 363(6), 501–504.
  • Vest, J. R., et al. (2019). Promoting health equity with health IT: Strategies and priorities. Journal of Healthcare Management, 64(3), 156-161.
  • Luke, J. A., et al. (2013). Barriers to Electronic Health Record Adoption in Community Clinics. Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, 26(4), 468–470.

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