Health Care Leaders' Experiences of Electronic Medical Record Adoption and Use

Health Care Leaders’ Experiences of Electronic Medical Record Adoption and Use by Joseph B. Weagraff MA, Webster University, 2004 BS, Excelsior College, 2002 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Business Administration Walden University December 2016 Abstract Adoption of electronic medical record (EMR) technology systems of meaningful use has been slow despite the mandate by the U.S. government. The purpose of this single case study was to explore strategies used by health care leaders to implement EMR technology systems of meaningful use to take advantage of federal incentive payments. Diffusion of innovation theory provided the conceptual framework for the study. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 6 health care leaders from a military installation in the Southeast United States. Data were analyzed using software, coding, and inductive analyses. The 3 prominent themes were patient, provider, and champion. Alerts from an EMR technology system can increase providers’ awareness and improve patient safety. Providers’ involvement in every phase of an EMR system’s implementation can improve the adoption rate. Champions play a critical role in successful adoption and implementation of EMR systems. Results of this study may assist health care leaders in implementing EMR systems to take advantage of federal incentive payments. Implications for positive social change include enhanced delivery of safe, high-quality health care.Adoption of electronic medical record (EMR) technology systems of meaningful use has been slow despite the mandate by the U.S. government. The purpose of this single case study was to explore strategies used by health care leaders to implement EMR technology systems of meaningful use to take advantage of federal incentive payments. Diffusion of innovation theory provided the conceptual framework for the study. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 6 health care leaders from a military installation in the Southeast United States. Data were analyzed using software, coding, and inductive analyses. The 3 prominent themes were patient, provider, and champion. Alerts from an EMR technology system can increase providers’ awareness and improve patient safety. Providers’ involvement in every phase of an EMR system’s implementation can improve the adoption rate. Champions play a critical role in successful adoption and implementation of EMR systems. Results of this study may assist health care leaders in implementing EMR systems to take advantage of federal incentive payments. Implications for positive social change include enhanced delivery of safe, high-quality health care. Health Care Leaders’ Experiences of Electronic Medical Record Adoption and Use by Joseph B. Weagraff MA, Webster University, 2004 BS, Excelsior College, 2002 Doctoral Study Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Business Administration Walden University December 2016 Dedication This study is dedicated to my soul mate, Jennifer Weagraff, and three loving sons, Anthony, Zachary, and Brandon, who supported my efforts toward completion of my degree. Furthermore, I would like to thank my sister for constantly reminding me to complete my study. Acknowledgments First, I would like to thank Dr. Jorge Gaytan for all of your encouragement and guidance you provided during my doctoral journey. Your responsiveness and availability made my experience enjoyable and less stressful. Second, I would like to thank the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) department for assigning Dr. Gaytan as my chair, replacing my previous chair. Next, I want to thank my other two committee members, Dr. Edward Paluch and Dr. Roger Mayer, for all of your time and participation. In closing, I want to thank all of the participants and the organization for granting me access and taking time in assisting me with my study.