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Ashwini S. Davison, M.D.
and
Ebony Williams
In this course you will receive an overview of the health IT ecosystem with a specific focus on the role of electronic health records (EHRs). You’ll be introduced to the factors that contributed to the move from paper records to digitized records and who the most common vendors are. We’ll go over features of EHRs such as computerized provider order entry, clinical decision support, documentation capabilities, and medication reconciliation. Like a physician’s stethoscope, the EHR has become an important tool in healthcare delivery and plays a part throughout the patient’s journey. You’ll go through each of the steps from patient scheduling, to front desk registration, outpatient visits, emergency room encounters, and inpatient admissions.
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In this course you will receive an overview of the health IT ecosystem with a specific focus on the role of electronic health records (EHRs). You’ll be introduced to the factors that contributed to the move from paper records to digitized records and who the most common vendors are. We’ll go over features of EHRs such as computerized provider order entry, clinical decision support, documentation capabilities, and medication reconciliation. Like a physician’s stethoscope, the EHR has become an important tool in healthcare delivery and plays a part throughout the patient’s journey. You’ll go through each of the steps from patient scheduling, to front desk registration, outpatient visits, emergency room encounters, and inpatient admissions.
Read more
In this course you will receive an overview of the health IT ecosystem with a specific focus on the role of electronic health records (EHRs). You’ll be introduced to the factors that contributed to the move from paper records to digitized records and who the most common vendors are. We’ll go over features of EHRs such as computerized provider order entry, clinical decision support, documentation capabilities, and medication reconciliation. Like a physician’s stethoscope, the EHR has become an important tool in healthcare delivery and plays a part throughout the patient’s journey. You’ll go through each of the steps from patient scheduling, to front desk registration, outpatient visits, emergency room encounters, and inpatient admissions.
During the course, we’ll also cover examples of how technical issues related to the EHR can be as simple as problems with logging or password resets. But how they can also be more complex related to alerts that are firing and the display of information. Although some of those challenges are beyond the scope of the IT support staff, having familiarity with the scope of potential problems and the broader EHR landscape is important. This course also includes an introduction to database architecture, servers, and interfaces. We wrap up by discussing the importance of training end-users on healthcare technology and the way in which effective change management strategies are crucial.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
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What's inside
Syllabus
Introduction to Electronic Health Records
In this module, you’ll be introduced to electronic health records (EHRs) and why they’re important from a patient care perspective. We will review the benefits of electronic health records and become familiar with what the most common EHR companies are that you should be familiar with. You’ll see the full lifecycle of the role an EHR plays starting from the point of scheduling and front desk registration. You’ll learn about the way ambulatory or outpatient encounters are handled. We’ll then discuss emergency room visits, inpatient admissions and the role of Health IT at the time of discharge from the hospital. We will highlight the integration of multiple steps in care delivery that revolve around this important tool. You’ll learn about the way patient data moves through the system, how clinicians might need technical assistance and what your role in troubleshooting or escalating issues could be.
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Syllabus
Introduction to Electronic Health Records
In this module, you’ll be introduced to electronic health records (EHRs) and why they’re important from a patient care perspective. We will review the benefits of electronic health records and become familiar with what the most common EHR companies are that you should be familiar with. You’ll see the full lifecycle of the role an EHR plays starting from the point of scheduling and front desk registration. You’ll learn about the way ambulatory or outpatient encounters are handled. We’ll then discuss emergency room visits, inpatient admissions and the role of Health IT at the time of discharge from the hospital. We will highlight the integration of multiple steps in care delivery that revolve around this important tool. You’ll learn about the way patient data moves through the system, how clinicians might need technical assistance and what your role in troubleshooting or escalating issues could be.
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possible dealbreakers
Teaches the fundamentals of electronic health records (EHRs), including their benefits, applications, and technical infrastructure
Provides practical insights into EHR usage in various healthcare settings, covering ambulatory, inpatient, emergency, pharmacy, radiology, and operating room environments
Introduces clinical decision support (CDS) and its role in improving patient care through alerts, preventive health reminders, and order set configuration
Emphasizes the importance of training, communication, and change management to ensure effective EHR implementation and user adoption
Suitable for individuals seeking an overview of EHRs and their impact on healthcare delivery
May be particularly beneficial for healthcare professionals, including nurses, technicians, and other staff involved in EHR usage
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Reviews summary
Foundational overview of health it and ehrs
According to students, this course provides a solid and comprehensive foundation in Health Information Technology, particularly focusing on Electronic Health Records (EHRs). Learners appreciate its relevance to real-world scenarios and current industry needs, making it invaluable for those transitioning into Health IT roles. Key features like Clinical Decision Support (CDS), training end-users, and change management are covered effectively. While widely praised for its clear structure and explanations, a few students noted it might be too introductory for those with existing IT knowledge, desiring more depth in areas like database architecture. Some recent feedback also suggests certain content might feel slightly dated.
Effectively covers CPOE, CDS, and change management.
"The modules on CPOE and CDS were very informative."
"The section on training end-users and change management was particularly useful for my job."
"I particularly valued the insights into governance structures for CDS committees."
Highly relevant for professionals in or entering Health IT.
"As someone transitioning into a Health IT role, this course was invaluable. I appreciated the practical insights."
"This course is a must-take for anyone working with or implementing EHR systems. The information is relevant and presented concisely."
"The focus on real-world scenarios was great. Very relevant to current industry needs."
Provides a strong base in Health IT and EHR systems.
"This course provided a really solid foundation in Health IT, especially with the Electronic Health Records (EHR) system."
"Excellent course! It covered the EHR lifecycle thoroughly, from scheduling to discharge. It truly gave me the 'fundamentals' I needed."
"Absolutely comprehensive for a fundamental course. It covers everything from the basics of EHRs to complex topics like CDS and change management."
Some examples or content might feel out of date.
"The course content is somewhat dated in parts. While the core concepts of EHRs are timeless, the examples given for vendors and specific technologies felt a bit old."
"I was expecting more current examples or case studies."
"The lectures were somewhat dry at times, lacking engagement compared to other online courses."
Perfect for novices, but lacks advanced technical detail.
"I found the course to be a bit too introductory... It felt like a broad overview rather than diving deep into specifics."
"Useful as an introduction, but don't expect deep dives. The database and server section was too brief for me."
"Perfect for someone like me who isn't an IT expert but works in healthcare. My only minor critique is that some sections felt a bit rushed."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Health Information Technology Fundamentals with these
activities:
Explore the features and functionalities of an EHR system
Show steps
Hands-on experience with an EHR system can help you grasp its capabilities and practical applications. Follow guided tutorials to navigate different EHR modules and features.
Show steps
-
Access an EHR system demo or trial version
-
Follow step-by-step tutorials on EHR navigation
-
Explore different EHR modules, such as patient charting, order entry, and medication management
-
Experiment with EHR features, such as clinical decision support and data analytics
Complete practice questions on EHR documentation
Show steps
The accuracy of patient records is crucial for effective healthcare delivery. Complete a series of practice questions to reinforce your understanding of proper EHR documentation.
Show steps
-
Review sample EHR documentation
-
Identify common errors in EHR documentation
-
Apply best practices for accurate and complete EHR documentation
-
Practice documenting patient encounters in a simulated EHR system
Configure order sets in system
Show steps
Order sets can allow for standardization of orders and improve workflow by providing a pre-defined template of commonly ordered medications, tests, and other interventions.
Show steps
-
Review system documentation and training materials to learn how to configure order sets.
-
Identify the most commonly ordered items for a specific patient population or clinical scenario.
-
Create a new order set or modify an existing one to include the identified items.
-
Set up any necessary parameters or logic within the order set, such as default doses or order frequencies.
-
Test the order set by placing a few orders and verifying that they are executed correctly.
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Attend an EHR training workshop
Show steps
In-person interaction with EHR experts and peers can provide valuable insights and practical tips. Consider attending an EHR training workshop to enhance your skills.
Show steps
-
Identify and register for an EHR training workshop relevant to your role
-
Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions and hands-on exercises
-
Network with other attendees and industry professionals
Design a workflow for a specific EHR use case
Show steps
Applying your EHR knowledge to real-world scenarios can deepen your understanding. Work on a project to design a workflow for a specific EHR use case, considering factors such as efficiency, accuracy, and patient safety.
Show steps
-
Identify a specific EHR use case, such as patient registration, order entry, or discharge planning
-
Design a workflow that outlines the steps involved in the use case
-
Incorporate best practices for EHR use and optimization
-
Consider factors such as efficiency, accuracy, and patient safety in your design
Explore the features and functionalities of an EHR system
Show steps
Hands-on experience with an EHR system can help you grasp its capabilities and practical applications. Follow guided tutorials to navigate different EHR modules and features.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Access an EHR system demo or trial version
- Follow step-by-step tutorials on EHR navigation
- Explore different EHR modules, such as patient charting, order entry, and medication management
- Experiment with EHR features, such as clinical decision support and data analytics
Complete practice questions on EHR documentation
Show steps
The accuracy of patient records is crucial for effective healthcare delivery. Complete a series of practice questions to reinforce your understanding of proper EHR documentation.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review sample EHR documentation
- Identify common errors in EHR documentation
- Apply best practices for accurate and complete EHR documentation
- Practice documenting patient encounters in a simulated EHR system
Configure order sets in system
Show steps
Order sets can allow for standardization of orders and improve workflow by providing a pre-defined template of commonly ordered medications, tests, and other interventions.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review system documentation and training materials to learn how to configure order sets.
- Identify the most commonly ordered items for a specific patient population or clinical scenario.
- Create a new order set or modify an existing one to include the identified items.
- Set up any necessary parameters or logic within the order set, such as default doses or order frequencies.
- Test the order set by placing a few orders and verifying that they are executed correctly.
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Attend an EHR training workshop
Show steps
In-person interaction with EHR experts and peers can provide valuable insights and practical tips. Consider attending an EHR training workshop to enhance your skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and register for an EHR training workshop relevant to your role
- Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions and hands-on exercises
- Network with other attendees and industry professionals
Design a workflow for a specific EHR use case
Show steps
Applying your EHR knowledge to real-world scenarios can deepen your understanding. Work on a project to design a workflow for a specific EHR use case, considering factors such as efficiency, accuracy, and patient safety.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a specific EHR use case, such as patient registration, order entry, or discharge planning
- Design a workflow that outlines the steps involved in the use case
- Incorporate best practices for EHR use and optimization
- Consider factors such as efficiency, accuracy, and patient safety in your design
Career center
Learners who complete Health Information Technology Fundamentals will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Data Analyst
Data Analyst
A Data Analyst is responsible for analyzing data, including healthcare data. They may also be involved in the design and implementation of EHR systems. This course may be useful in helping you build a foundation for this role by providing you with an introduction to database architecture and interfaces. You will also learn about the importance of training end-users on healthcare technology and the role of change management in EHR upgrades.
Health IT Architect
Health IT Architect
A Health IT Architect is responsible for designing and implementing health IT systems, including EHR systems. They may also be involved in the design and implementation of EHR systems. This course may be useful in helping you build a foundation for this role by providing you with an overview of the health IT ecosystem, including EHRs and their features. You will also learn about the importance of training end-users on healthcare technology and the role of change management in EHR upgrades.
Healthcare Technology Consultant
Healthcare Technology Consultant
A Healthcare Technology Consultant is responsible for advising healthcare organizations on the use of technology, including EHR systems. They may also be involved in the design and implementation of EHR systems. This course may be useful in helping you build a foundation for this role by providing you with an overview of the health IT ecosystem, including EHRs and their features. You will also learn about the importance of training end-users on healthcare technology and the role of change management in EHR upgrades.
Clinical Systems Analyst
Clinical Systems Analyst
A Clinical Systems Analyst is responsible for analyzing and improving clinical systems, including EHR systems. They may also be involved in the design and implementation of EHR systems. This course may be useful in helping you build a foundation for this role by providing you with an overview of the health IT ecosystem, including EHRs and their features. You will also learn about the importance of training end-users on healthcare technology and the role of change management in EHR upgrades.
Health Information Systems Manager
Health Information Systems Manager
A Health Information Systems Manager is responsible for managing and overseeing the health information systems of an organization, including EHR systems. They may also be involved in the design and implementation of EHR systems. This course may be useful in helping you build a foundation for this role by providing you with an overview of the health IT ecosystem, including EHRs and their features. You will also learn about the importance of training end-users on healthcare technology and the role of change management in EHR upgrades.
Chief Information Officer (CIO)
Chief Information Officer (CIO)
A CIO is responsible for overseeing the IT strategy and operations of an organization, including those in healthcare. They may also be involved in the design and implementation of EHR systems. This course may be useful in helping you build a foundation for this role by providing you with an overview of the health IT ecosystem, including EHRs and their features. You will also learn about the importance of training end-users on healthcare technology and the role of change management in EHR upgrades.
IT Director
IT Director
An IT Director is responsible for managing and directing the IT department of an organization, including those in healthcare. They may also be involved in the design and implementation of EHR systems. This course may be useful in helping you build a foundation for this role by providing you with an overview of the health IT ecosystem, including EHRs and their features. You will also learn about the importance of training end-users on healthcare technology and the role of change management in EHR upgrades.
Project Manager
Project Manager
A Project Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects, including those related to healthcare IT. They may also be involved in the design and implementation of EHR systems. This course may be useful in helping you build a foundation for this role by providing you with an overview of the health IT ecosystem, including EHRs and their features. You will also learn about the importance of training end-users on healthcare technology and the role of change management in EHR upgrades.
Systems Analyst
Systems Analyst
A Systems Analyst is responsible for analyzing and improving business processes, including those related to healthcare. They may also be involved in the design and implementation of EHR systems. This course may be useful in helping you build a foundation for this role by providing you with an overview of the health IT ecosystem, including EHRs and their features. You will also learn about the importance of training end-users on healthcare technology and the role of change management in EHR upgrades.
Database Administrator
Database Administrator
A Database Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining databases, including those used by EHR systems. They may also be involved in the design and implementation of EHR systems. This course may be useful in helping you build a foundation for this role by providing you with an introduction to database architecture and interfaces. You will also learn about the importance of training end-users on healthcare technology and the role of change management in EHR upgrades.
Medical Records Technician
Medical Records Technician
A Medical Records Technician is responsible for managing and maintaining patient health records, including both paper and electronic records. They may also be involved in the implementation and maintenance of EHR systems. This course may be useful in helping you build a foundation for this role by providing you with an overview of the health IT ecosystem, including EHRs and their features. You will also learn about the importance of training end-users on healthcare technology and the role of change management in EHR upgrades.
Health Information Technician
Health Information Technician
A Health Information Technician is responsible for maintaining and managing patient health records, including both paper and electronic records. They may also be involved in the implementation and maintenance of EHR systems. This course may be useful in helping you build a foundation for this role by providing you with an overview of the health IT ecosystem, including EHRs and their features. You will also learn about the importance of training end-users on healthcare technology and the role of change management in EHR upgrades.
Clinical Informatics Analyst
Clinical Informatics Analyst
A Clinical Informatics Analyst is responsible for analyzing and improving clinical data and processes to enhance patient care. They may also be involved in the design and implementation of EHR systems. This course may be useful in helping you build a foundation for this role by providing you with an overview of the health IT ecosystem, including EHRs and their features. You will also learn about clinical decision support tools and how they can be used to improve patient care.
Health Information Manager (HIM)
Health Information Manager (HIM)
A HIM is responsible for managing and protecting patient health information while ensuring compliance with regulations. They may also be involved in the implementation and maintenance of EHR systems. This course may be useful in helping you build a foundation for this role by providing you with an overview of the health IT ecosystem, including EHRs and their features. You will also learn about the importance of training end-users on healthcare technology and the role of change management in EHR upgrades.
Electronic Health Record (EHR) Specialist
Electronic Health Record (EHR) Specialist
An EHR Specialist is a member of an IT department who manages and configures EHR solutions. If an EHR system is not working, performing slowly, or experiencing glitches, the EHR Specialist will be responsible for troubleshooting and resolving the issue. This course may be useful in helping you build a foundation for this role by familiarizing you with different EHR vendors and their features, as well as introducing you to concepts like database architecture and interfaces.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/wn4icc/health
Reading list
We've selected eight books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Health Information Technology Fundamentals.
Provides guidance for clinicians on the use of electronic health records (EHRs). It discusses the benefits and challenges of EHRs, and provides tips for using them effectively.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the field of health information. It discusses the different types of health information, its uses, and its management.
Provides a practical guide to the use of health information systems for health professionals. It discusses the different types of health information systems, their benefits and challenges, and how to use them effectively.
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Would be an excellent supplement to this course for readers who are not employed by the healthcare industry but want a look at EHR technology from a patient's perspective.
Provides the official coding guidelines for ICD-10-CM, the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification. It is an essential resource for health information professionals who need to code and classify diagnoses and procedures.
Provides the official guidelines for coding and reporting using ICD-10-CM, the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification. It is an essential resource for health information professionals who need to code and classify diagnoses and procedures.
This document provides a framework for assessing the adoption and use of electronic health records (EHRs) in healthcare organizations. It valuable resource for health information professionals who are involved in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of EHR systems.
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the electronic health record (EHR). It discusses the benefits and challenges of EHRs, and provides guidance for clinicians on how to use them effectively.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/wn4icc/health
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Rating
4.8
Effort
6 hours to complete
Via
Coursera
Institution
Johns Hopkins University
Instructors
Ashwini S. Davison, M.D.
Ebony Williams
Language
English
Transcripts
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
Healthcare IT Support. It's comprised of four courses:
- Operations and Patient Safety for Healthcare IT Staff
- Health Information Technology Fundamentals (viewing)
- Healthcare Data Security, Privacy, and Compliance
- The Critical Role of IT Support Staff in Healthcare
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