Clinician Champions and Leaders for Electronic Medical Record Innovations

Introduction Installing an electronic medical record (EMR) in a large organization is a complex and difficult undertaking. Achieving acceptance by clinicians is among the greatest challenges. EMRs typically require substantial change in the way clinicians work; indeed, introduction of EMRs may transform health care organizations. Nearly any change is associated with instability and resistance, and this is well documented among physician users of EMRs; fortunately, however, effective leadership may help mitigate and overcome this resistance. How important are clinician champions in achieving clinician acceptance? How can they be identified? What can be done to develop their knowledge, skills, and attitudes so that they are optimally prepared? What support will increase their ongoing effectiveness? Answers to these questions draw from literature review and from the author’s own experience implementing EMR systems in a health maintenance organization.