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Today we are going to be talking about CPOE. Read this article to know what CPOE is, explore how it functions, evaluate its pros and cons and determine strategies for successful implementation.
Definition
CPOE stands for Computerized Provider Order Entry – The technology represents a computer application that allows doctors to create orders for drugs, laboratory and imaging tests and other medical services electronically rather than by writing and transmitting paper-based prescriptions.
You are probably thinking now what’s the difference between CPOE and E-prescribing. A computerized provider order entry system is used in the hospital environment for providing inpatient care. In the meantime, an e-prescribing system supports outpatient environments, where a paper prescription for drugs needs to be written.
How does a Computerized Provider Order Entry work?
The typical clinical workflow that involves a CPOE system includes the following steps:
- The doctor logs into the CPOE system if it’s standalone software or in the EHR platform if CPOE is only its module.
- After successful authorization, the doctor starts creating and editing the order for drugs, laboratory tests.
- Then, the order is verified using the data stored in the clinical decision support system, electronic health records software and of course in the practice management system.
- When verification is completed, the order is transmitted to the service or medication provider.
- In the end, the order is logged into a patient’s medical history, stored in the EHR.
Benefits of CPOE
- Fewer Medication Errors: In fact, the researchers state that the CPOE platform can reduce 13 to 19 of medication errors.
- Increased efficiency of workflows in the healthcare institution.
- Cost savings: CPOE systems help significantly reduce the extra expenses resulting from medical errors
Challenges of CPOE Adoption
#1 Complicated Initial Setup and Integrations
Well, the system usually requires lots of customizations and integrations with the existing software to address the needs of a particular healthcare provider.
#2 Numerous Workflow Disruptions
One way to smoothen this issue is to deliberately slow down the process of software implementation and gradually introduce changes.
#3 Need for Constant Support and Updates
From our experience, we can say that the updates and support of the CPOE software are crucial for the hospitals that want to keep up with current industry tendencies and meet safety requirements when working with patients.
#4 Data Entry Errors
Therefore it’s vital to test the CPOE systems and analyze the cases when errors occurred.
How to overcome barriers to successful CPOE implementation?
- Engage physicians and nurses in all stages
- Design and improve current workflow and processes
- Choose a reliable development team to build or customize the solution
- Train your medical staff.
To overcome these issues, we advise the healthcare organization to focus on its needs, map its ordering workflows and engage medical staff in all the processes.
This article was prepared by the EZtek team. EZtek helps top brands worldwide to innovate and accelerate digital transformation. We provide world-class enterprise software engineering, design and technology consulting services.
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