Protecting sensitive health data requires significant ongoing investment in IT
infrastructure (Alder, 2024).
3. Interoperability Limitations
Incomplete data integration across different health systems can lead to delays, duplication
of services, and gaps in patient records (Walker et al., 2023).
4. Financial Barriers
While MGH can afford advanced systems, smaller organizations often struggle with the
high costs of implementation, maintenance, and staff training.
5. Patient Usability Concerns
Digital literacy, access to technology, and disability-related challenges limit some
patients’ ability to use portals effectively (Alami et al., 2022).
6. Regulatory Compliance
Adherence to HIPAA and other evolving policies requires regular updates, retraining, and
workflow adjustments, further burdening staff (Basil et al., 2024).
These barriers demonstrate that while EHRs support safer care, they also require robust
organizational strategies to overcome technological and human factors.
Workflow Integration of EHR Technology
The integration of EHR technology across the care continuum enables more coordinated,
efficient, and safe patient care. At MGH, workflows are designed to minimize redundancy
while maximizing safety:
• Admission & Registration: Front-desk staff enter demographic and insurance data. AI-
assisted chatbots allow pre-registration to shorten wait times.
• Documentation & Assessment: Nurses and assistants record vital signs and histories,
supported by prompts for allergies and incomplete data.
• Provider Review: Physicians access labs, imaging, and CDS alerts to inform treatment
planning. Voice-to-text documentation reduces administrative burden.
• Orders & Treatment: CPOE ensures accuracy in prescriptions and lab requests.
Barcoding and blockchain improve medication safety and supply chain security.
• Monitoring: Predictive analytics detect deterioration early, sending alerts for sepsis,
falls, or other risks (Zheng et al., 2020).
• Discharge & Follow-Up: Patients receive e-prescriptions, education, and remote
monitoring support through digital assistants.
This workflow illustrates how data-driven processes align with evidence-based standards,
improving safety, efficiency, and patient engagement.
Patient Safety Performance and Opportunities
MGH’s excellence is demonstrated by its Leapfrog “A” grade and a 5-star Medicare rating,
which reflect strong patient safety and outcome measures (Leapfrog, n.d.; Medicare, 2024).
However, opportunities for improvement remain: