North Denmark Region and EHR on track despite COVID-19

 

Currently, the North Denmark Region is preparing the switch to Systematic's EHR system, Columna Clinical Information System. During the change, problems with resources being under pressure for both parties had led to an extended clarification phase, which in turn has led to a far more processed timetable, according to office manager Kristian Alstrup Baden.

During the next couple of years, the North Denmark Region is implementing a new electronic health record, which will contribute to a more digitalised treatment of patients. This Spring, the project has moved from the clarification phase to the preparation phase, but in this period both the North Denmark Region and Systematic have been pressed on resources.

This was caused by additional work with the contract, as the North Denmark Region acquired Systematic’s EHR system through an option in the contract between the Region of Southern Denmark and Systematic for the same EHR system. For the North Denmark Region, it has taken more time to get acquainted with the contract and identify the differences between the two regions. This has required Systematic and the North Denmark Region to clarify their expectations and reach a common understanding.

The process ended up adding another month to the clarification phase, however it also made room for thorough work with the timetable. According to office the manager Kristian Alstrup Baden, this extra time has been well spent.

In March 2020, the preparation phase was initiated. Though the challenges regarding resources are resolved, the current COVID-19 crisis can become a problem for the progress of the project. Involving clinicians in the process is crucial, but it is yet unknown to which extent the clinical personnel can be involved during the COVID-19 crisis.

For now, the plan is to have the region’s new EHR system ready for use in March 2022.

The full article is available in Danish here.