I have an EMR system--now what?

Equipping a clinic with an electronic medical record (EMR) system is the first step of many required to actually realize a benefit from the technology. In integrating an EMR system into a clinical practice, success markers include a system that requires minimum vendor customization, has significant growth potential, and has quality vendor support. Moreover, internal success markers include provision for adequate training; complete buy-in from the intended users; a proactive staff; a commitment to overcome inevitable obstacles; and reasonable expectations in terms of cost, time, and eventual return on investment.