EHR Adoption Road Map and Tools

Unlike the installation of word processing and other off-the-shelf software applications, adoption of an EHR is an on-going, complex process. Intended to transform practice operations, it requires analyzing existing processes, carefully planning operational changes, and diligent effort to bring about those changes. The process has been likened to adding a room to your house: once the construction is completed you still must decorate, furnish, and equip the room. Similarly, reaping the value of an EHR requires customizing it to your own needs, adjusting practice workflow to make effective use of its features, and continuously looking for new ways to enhance its value to your practice through expanding connections, functions and options. Implementation of an EHR is not the main objective. It is a tool that if selected and implemented wisely, can improve practice efficiency and clinical quality over time.

There are typically three basic stages of EHR adoption:

1. EHR Investigation: Do I Need It? For What? In this stage practices need to assess their readiness for an EHR through examination of their clinical and work flow processes – as well as the skill set of both the clinicians and staff.

2. Selection and Purchase This is a critical stage. The review and selection of a product, followed by the negotiation of a contract, will directly impact the success of your EHR implementation. Time spent on evaluation and negotiation is well worth the effort.

3. Implementation: Getting Your EHR Up & Running While every practice will have different needs and preferences, there are some common issues for which guidance can be helpful. Practices need to understand existing work flows in order to determine how this new technology can help improve office and clinical processes. Try not to adapt the technology to old and perhaps inefficient work patterns – but rather use the opportunity to leverage the ability of the EHR and its components to create efficiencies. The benefits of an EHR are typically demonstrated over time and across the office functions. While some processes may be slower at first, if the implementation is done correctly, this should improve significantly as more experience is gained.

ACP’s Center for Practice Improvement & Innovation has assembled guides, tools and references to assist College members at each stage in the adoption process. Please revisit this page since new resources will be added periodically.

The information, documents, opinions, and any references to brand or product names expressed on this website do not necessarily reflect the official position of the American College of Physicians ("ACP") and ACP makes no representations, warranties, or assurances as to the accuracy or completeness of the information provided herein. The information contained on this website is not to be construed as legal or medical advice and is not to be substituted for individual research or to replace the need to consult with professionals. The information provided herein is offered as a service to members and other visitors for informational purposes only and any action or outcome from its use is the responsibility of such user.

Page updated: 08-01-08

Get Started Now


  • Access the EHR Comparison Tool.
    (You will first be prompted to provide your ACP Online username and password and then asked to accept the terms of the agreement.)
  • Not an ACP Member? Learn more about the benefits of ACP Membership.