"Continued investments in people, facilities, technology and equipment are required to provide the comprehensive scope of quality medical services and care the region deserves and expects from LMH."
WE'VE COME A LONG WAY
When it comes to technology, LMH can be considered in most circles to be leading the way. Improving the accessibility of patient information for our physicians, staff, outlying clinics and the Lawrence health care community is an important strategic initiative that benefits patient care. Electronic medical records (EMR) free caregivers to provide more hands-on care by reducing paperwork. EMR also provides additional layers of patient safety, enables timely care, facilitates communication and improves patient and physician satisfaction.
Where does LMH stand compared to other hospitals? In a survey of over 4,000 health care organizations, eight stages of EMR development were identified. LMH has advanced to stage 5, which puts us in the top 5 percent of hospitals our size.
Among the larger initiatives for 2008 as LMH works toward a fully integrated EMR are Computerized Physician Order Entry and outpatient and surgical documentation. Other technology projects include electronic card access for secured areas, Internet access in new patient rooms, and LMH is working toward complete wireless access for the public by year end. In addition, many clinical departments will be bringing on new medical equipment and services with major technology implications, such as the $1.7 million digital mammography planned for later this year.