Due to the resource constraint, it is important to discuss future implementations and possible limitations with the stakeholders. The initial strategy can be the use of the new electronic health record (EHR) plan in one department before fully integrating it on all levels. The stakeholders can assess how successful the program is by analyzing the results. Moreover, its effectiveness may motivate the stakeholders to allocate more resources due to the high chance of positive organizational outcomes. Another solution is prioritizing the essential aspects of the project, such as staff training and IT work. More minor factors can be delayed until the primary objectives are met. However, the stakeholders will be informed that the constraints may be risky on multiple levels. According to researchers, IT implementations operated under constraints are often vulnerable to cyberattacks (Aseeri et al., 2018). Moreover, a lack of adequate training can lead to job dissatisfaction and lack of efficiency in employees.
The first steps towards the implementation of project management in the EHR initiative would be planning, discussing the objectives and tasks with the stakeholders, and assembling a solid team. Scheduling approximate deadlines, planning all the steps and timing throughout the project, and examining possible risks will benefit the future execution of the EHR initiative. Such a meticulous approach can also be practical in terms of improving stakeholders’ overviews of the project. Professionalism and punctuality are often appreciated by individuals who are directly affected by the future results of the implementation. Moreover, all the changes and new regulations will be discussed with the stakeholders who will be primarily involved in the process. Last but not least, assembling a strong team able to train, guide, and apply their skills to the project is another crucial factor that will lead to positive organizational outcomes.
There is always a risk of resistance when it comes to applying a new system. However, such adverse organizational effects can be mitigated. First, it is crucial to be transparent and explain how digitalization will make things much easier for both patients and healthcare providers. Researchers point out that leaders have to discuss all the benefits of introducing new digital advancements to their organizations (Shaughnessy, 2018). Employees will not only receive adequate training but also participate in meetings and discussions in regard to the EHR project. Listening to concerns, illustrating possible benefits, and offering support will create a more positive environment within the workforce. Moreover, such strategies will contribute to a smoother transition from the old regulations to the new ones with fewer risks and higher employee morale. Another possible solution is showing stakeholders that the project has been effective in other environments which chose to implement it and did so successfully. Such objective examples will mitigate the possible resistance that may occur due to the significant changes within the system.
Project management can undoubtedly benefit any healthcare organization due to the limitless opportunities and strategies that can be applied to minimize risks and maximize success. Effective PM has the potential to improve multiple organizational levels. One of them is ameliorating planning and building a system that allows for more efficient risk mitigation and scheduling of different processes. Another essential concept that project management can affect is communication. Effective communication with patients and among healthcare providers can decrease the rate of medical errors. Furthermore, a project aimed to improve the quality of care and the proficiency of the employees can result in an increase in patient satisfaction and overall organizational results. All these systematic contributions will create a positive environment for all stakeholders.
References
Aseeri, A. O., Zhuang, Y., & Alkatheiri, M. S. A machine learning-based security vulnerability study on XOR pufs for resource-constraint internet of things. 2018 IEEE International Congress on Internet of Things (ICIOT). Web.
Shaughnessy, H. (2018). Creating digital transformation: Strategies and steps. Strategy & Leadership, 46(2), 19–25. Web.