Medical personnel are taught how to create electronic patient charts, how to prescribe medication using digital software, and how to scan hard copy medical records into a patient’s digital file during electronic medical record (EMR) training, which usually lasts several weeks. Instruction on how to use technology to manage laboratory results and transcriptions is also included in the training. While some trade schools offer generalized EMR training, computer software companies that specialize in EMR products typically assign their own trainers to personally guide nurses, doctors, and support staff through the use of a digital health records system tailored to their employer. In most cases, no time is spent on the fundamentals of computer use during training, so workers who aren’t familiar with computers may require pre-training.
The first EMR training session may be spent providing an overview of the entire records system so that users are comfortable logging in and accessing the various components. Because the patient chart is the most important component of any digital records system, the majority of training sessions focus on how to create and update a patient’s chart, as well as how to read it, locate previous histories, and share the data digitally. Users must learn how to use EMR communication features like built-in email and real-time status postings in order to share data among medical professionals.
EMR training includes showing medical workers a variety of data entry methods during chart creation lessons. Workers are taught how to use handwriting recognition systems, dictation through microphones or recordings, and the importation of picture files, graphics, and statistical spreadsheets in addition to standard keypad entry. During EMR training, users will also learn how to search digital records and prioritize or synthesize their findings. Workers also learn how to switch between multiple open files without closing them or losing track of what they’re doing. Learning all of these charting procedures, on the other hand, can be tedious for some users, prompting many trainers to defer such training until users have mastered simpler procedures like scanning in a patient’s paper files.
Another important aspect of training is the use of digital prescription software. This type of software can help reduce errors caused a doctor’s sloppy handwriting. Workers are taught not only how to choose which medications to digitally prescribe, but also how to send the prescription to the pharmacy’s electronic system right away. They can also learn how to print a prescription for the patient to take home in a hard copy format. The majority of prescription training modules include instructions on how to use the software to identify drug contraindications, suggest substitute medications, and print daily usage guidelines.
Laboratory test results are one of the most important and difficult EMR training modules. Technicians learn how to program laboratory software so that results are delivered directly to EMR software and associated with specific patients. Workers are also instructed on how to choose the best format for laboratory results. Managers typically schedule follow-up sessions after EMR training to refresh employee skills and teach aspects of any new or upgraded software.