Evaluation of the steps for implementation of electronic health records for a small chiropractic practice in Northern Michigan

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this article is to use the steps described by Genson and Chun for implementation of electronic health records to determine the plausibility of implementation in a small private practice in northern Michigan. DISCUSSION: A step by step approach was applied as described by Genson and Chun, which included discovery, planning, procurement, implementation, and support. Several challenges and obstacles were identified. CONCLUSION: Electronic health records will eventually be a necessity, but they may not have matured enough to easily replace paper charts or to justify the expense for a single-doctor practice at this time. Each doctor should evaluate the needs of his or her practice for implementing electronic health records and weigh benefits and drawbacks prior to considering implementation.