Planned implementation of an integrated Cardiovascular Information System in an Acute Hospital Group

Computer based patient records have been highlighted as a requirement in modern healthcare. Evidence around their contribution to quality of care is mixed and is more reliant on how well they are implemented, with there being a bedding in period of up to one year before seeing benefits. Successful implementation leads to efficiencies, cost savings and a return on the significant financial outlay. The need for funding can be a major barrier, as are changes in work practices and people issues such as resistance. Sites with great implementation have high levels of clinician involvement, leadership with vision, resilience, flexibility and collaboration. This project outlines the plan to deliver a CVIS which will integrate across a hospital group. It has identified triggers for change and forces that might prevent it, has developed a communication plan based on a stakeholder analysis. It has created a collaborative working group, involving key stakeholders who have agreed the key priorities and essential features of the system. Important milestones are highlighted, such as addressing the funding, putting governance in place, selecting the correct vendor, having sufficient hardware, software and training in place. The project will be evaluated throughout its life cycle using a novel WHO-HOT-Fit framework. The project is an academically robust, strategic plan to implement a CVIS which will require leadership that is collaborative, honest and seeks out, and identifies people with talent and tacit knowledge who can contribute to the process.