The javascript used on this site for creative design effects is not supported by your browser. Please note that this will not affect access to the content on this web site.
Skip Navigation
H H S Department of Health and Human Services
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Health Information Technology and Quality
Improvement

A-Z Index  |  Questions?  |  Order Publications  |  HRSA Mobile

What Specific Expertise Do I Need to Implement Health IT Tools?

A well-planned and careful approach to project management is essential to the success of the implementation. As one of the important first steps, you should ensure that you have a knowledgeable project leader who is well-equipped to lead the implementation and is familiar with the workflow processes of the organization.

Technical expertise will also be needed.  Most health IT vendors will provide you with the necessary technical assistance to support implementation.  If your organization is using an open-source system (software products that are available to the public at no cost), you may need a vendor or an IT professional to install the software and adapt it to your computer system and practice.  For example, OpenEMR is an open-source practice management and EHR software suite.  Although the software is free of charge, you may need to pay for its installation and support.  If assistance is needed, installation and support is offered by OpenEMR staff, who can provide these services at your site or as a remotely hosted web application.

Related Resources:

Health IT Adoption Toolbox, Staffing and Expertise – HRSA’s toolbox offers guidance on the type of leadership and project team members that constitute an implementation team.

Health Information Technology - Tools and Resources for EHR Implementation go to exit disclaimer – This comprehensive set of planning tools and other resources and information on EHR implementation is posted on IPRO's interactive the Health Care Quality Improvement Community board.

Healthcare Technology Resource Guide go to exit disclaimer – This resource guide of the Community Clinics Initiative provides useful tools for managing a variety of health IT projects.

Developed by the Health Resources and Services Administration as a resource for health centers and other safety net and ambulatory care providers who are seeking to implement health IT.
About
Health Information Technology Toolboxes help health centers, safety net providers, and ambulatory care providers with electronic and online resources and technical assistance to improve patient care.  More>
Stay Informed

Register for the HealthIT and Quality Improvement eNewsletter

Comments?
E-mail the HealthIT e-mail box: healthit@hrsa.gov