Achieving meaningful use of electronic health records (EHRs) in primary care: Proposed critical processes from the Kentucky Ambulatory Network (KAN)

Objective: The Kentucky Ambulatory Network, a practice-based research network, conducted this study to propose critical processes for electronic health record (EHR) implementation.

Methods: Periodic observation of the implementation process and assessment of meaningful use (MU) metrics within 10 small primary care practices working with a regional extension center.

Results: Through focus groups and structured interviews, the strategies, processes, and procedures used by these practices to achieve MU of EHRs were determined. Implementation themes related to and critical processes associated with EHR adoption were proposed.

Conclusions: Five proposed critical processes for EHR adoption and achievement of MU were identified; these processes were supported by 70% (7 of 10) of the study practices meeting MU criteria.