CIO: Consider 'Lessons Learned' Before Implementing Open Source EHRs

Open source electronic health record systems such as VistA are better than closed proprietary systems in terms of development, innovation and continuous quality improvement, but providers can still make the transition run more smoothly, according to Peter Groen, former CIO of Atlanta VA Medical Center.

"Using an open source product reduces risk and supports the goal of vendor independence," Groen said in a July 6 blog post. "If a vendor is inadequate, other companies or technical staff are readily available in the community to take over and provide support."

Groen, offered several lessons learned in implementing an EHR, which he notes can be applied to both open and closed EHR systems. Some of the recommendations include: