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Do we need to upgrade an existing system?

As part of the process of a health IT implementation, health centers, other safety net providers and ambulatory care providers often have to make detailed plans for infrastructure upgrades. For many, a useful starting point is completing a technology inventory of the systems currently in place in their institution. When evaluating the current infrastructure a complete assessment of the following core components should be completed: 1) network, 2) servers, 3) desktop PCs and 4) peripheral devices (e.g., printers and fax machines). Many new clinical systems today require specific server and PC configurations. By reviewing the vendor specifications for their software a plan can be developed for the exact infrastructure upgrades that will be required.

The resources below provide templates for completing a hardware inventory.

• Information Systems Evaluation (Word - 67KB)   - A brief table developed by IPRO to be used to inventory existing systems.
• Health Care Technology Resource Guide (PDF – 387KB)   - Community Clinics Initiative comprehensive guide for implementation of electronic health records; includes links to multiple tools available on the Community Clinics website.
• Technology Capability and Maturity Model (PDF - 71KB)   - Developed by CompuMentor (2007).  Table identifying characteristics of different stages of readiness for EHR implementation and includes evaluation criteria such as technology vision and leadership, technology infrastructure, training, case management and data management.