Do Electronic Health Records Aid in Staff Retention?

It certainly looks that way. When you are considering implementation of an electronic health record (EHR) system and you review the ROI and the various pros and cons for your practice, don't forget about the impact on staff retention and reduction of turnover.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, it costs one-third of a new hire's annual salary to replace them. This total includes both direct costs such as advertising the position as well as indirect costs that include recruitment, selection and training. In addition it factors in reduced productivity for both the new hire and the existing staff during the hiring and training process. *

This is an expense that affects every practice, small or large. So, what can you do about it? How do you help reduce turnover and thus reduce the costs associated with this problem?

One Possible Solution
Many practices are finding that one answer is technology. Solutions such as practice and clinical management software offer many benefits that may encourage employees to stay where they are. When asked about the impact of these solutions on Gastrointestinal Specialists, A.M.C. Linda Ray, administrator, says “Any one of my staff would tell you without hesitation that these solutions have made their lives so much better. They have all said that they would choose a practice with electronic medical records over a practice without it if all else was equal.”

Ray believes that the benefits of automation are helping her retain valuable, trained employees. Why is this? There are many possible reasons.

  • Streamlined workflow makes employees more efficient
  • Improved efficiency often reduces the need for overtime
  • Expanded access to patient data makes it easier for providers to complete encounters and other tasks often with enhanced accuracy
  • Remote access also means providers can access records from hospitals, home or other remote locations improving communication and simplifying tasks like rounds
  • Technology is sometimes seen as an investment on the part of the business in both employees and patients, which can raise levels of confidence and commitment

If annual salaries cost you an average of $24,000 to $36,000 per employee, then replacing that employee may cost you as much as $11,000. When considering whether or not to implement an EHR, this is a cost you should consider.

Sage Software Can Help
Intergy by Sage and Intergy EHR by Sage combine to provide a solution that offers many benefits to both your practice and your staff. "The system's flexibility allows it to fit everyone's workflow," explains Denise Tonner, M.D., Diabetes and Endocrine Associates of the Treasure Coast. Her practice implemented the Intergy suite of solutions with the goal of creating a virtually paperless environment. They found that in their attempt to reduce costs and improve care, one of the side benefits was increased staff satisfaction.

According to Dr. Tonner, the nurses have commented on the fact that they would never want to go back to paper-based charts for triage because the computerized access to patient charts allows them to respond immediately to patient needs. This is just one of many benefits Diabetes and Endocrine Associates has seen from the use of Intergy.

Ready to Get Started?
If you are ready to take the next step toward streamlining workflow in your practice and possibly improving employee retention, Sage Software can help. To set up an onsite demonstration and find about our practice and clinical management solutions, please:

* Improving Staff Satisfaction Ensures PFS Success - Management of employee turnover Healthcare Financial Management, July, 2001 by Bobette M. Gustafson