Implementation of an electronic medical record in family practice: a case study.
BACKGROUND
Electronic medical records (EMRs) have the potential to foster a safer, more effective and more efficient healthcare system. However, their implementation in primary care practice remains a challenge.


OBJECTIVE
This study aims at exploring factors that have influenced the successful implementation of an EMR system in a family medicine group (FMG) in the Province of Québec, Canada.


METHODS
A case study approach was selected to get a deep understanding of the phenomenon in its context. The case was chosen on the basis that it was the first FMG in Québec to implement a full EMR used by all clinicians. Fifteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with key informants.


RESULTS
Factors that have influenced the success of the EMR implementation were classified under three broad themes: a project leader who combined the roles of clinical, technology and knowledge champion; an organisation that was open to and supportive of change; and an evidence-based implementation strategy tailored to the local context and adoption pace.


CONCLUSIONS
This study underscores the importance of a champion for successful EMR implementation. It proposes a set of roles and characteristics that could be found in a champion as well as other elements for a successful EMR implementation strategy.
Gagnon
Marie-Pierre
MP
Québec University Hospital Research Centre, Québec City, Canada and Faculty of Nursing, Laval University, Québec City, Canada. marie-pierre.gagnon@fsi.ulaval.ca
Desmartis
Marie
M
Labrecque
Michel
M
Légaré
France
F
Lamothe
Lise
L
Fortin
Jean-Paul
JP
Rancourt
Jean-François
JF
Duplantie
Julie
J
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001292:Attitude to Computers; D005194:Family Practice; D006801:Humans; D007857:Leadership; D016347:Medical Records Systems, Computerized / Q000191:economics / Q000458:organization & administration*; D019982:Organizational Case Studies; D009936:Organizational Innovation; D011792:Quebec; D016526:Workload