MEDICAL DOCTORS ELECTRONIC RECORD ASSOCIATION

OF SOUTHERN ALBERTA (MDERA)

 

 

Project Background

In summer 2005, a number of physicians in the Department of Medicine initiated the selection of an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system for use in the ambulatory clinic and private office environments. Approximately 120 physicians designated funding received through the Provincial Physician Office System Program to form the Medical Doctors Electronic Record Association of Southern Alberta (MDERA), a non-profit guidance body for the EMR project.

In conjunction with various stakeholders and the Region’s Advanced Technology team, MDERA conducted months of in-depth analysis of the numerous available EMR systems, ultimately selecting and signing a four year agreement with Egton Medical Information Systems (EMIS).

 

The primary goal is to enhance patient care and communication between the physicians and other health care professionals.

 

Why EMIS?

Not only does EMIS meet identified user requirements and Regional technical standards, it is compatible with the Region’s Electronic Health Record (EHR).  Long term benefits of an EHR integrated system include:

 

· Enhanced MDERA member roles (as physicians, educators, and researchers in the outpatient & community setting)

· Streamlined clinic business processes

· Reduction in duplicate data entry

· Improved data integrity

· Increased data sharing between the Region and MDERA (supporting the care continuum)

 

Who will use EMIS?

MDERA’s 133 Physician members represent 10 Regional divisions:  Cardiology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Gastroenterology, General Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, Hematology, Infectious Disease, Nephrology, Respirology, and Rheumatology with clinics in regional facilities as well as in private offices.  All MDERA physicians will receive EMIS for their Clinic and the clinic staff will also be trained to use EMIS in their practices.  It is anticipated that in the future, physicians in other departments as well as those in private clinics will join MDERA.

 

Where are we today?

A limited roll-out to FMC Division of Rheumatology Clinic 5A began mid-October (2006), initially providing EMIS access to 15 users.  This roll-out provided an opportunity to resolve workflow and technical issues prior to EMIS implementation in additional Outpatient Clinics.    Since then, There has also been a limited rollout to the Division of Respirology at FMC, and training has begun with the Billing Clerks. 

 

As further information is available regarding upcoming roll-outs in the remaining Divisions, information will be posted on this site.

 

What can I expect going forward?

As MDERA and the EMIS Project Team continue work on finalizing implementation and integration plans, all information relevant to future EMIS users will be shared.  If you have EMIS related questions or concerns at any time, please contact the EMIS or MDERA Trainers, trainers@mdera.ca, 403-210-9676, the MDERA Office, mjduncan@mdera.ca, 403-220-7893, or your Division Head.