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If leaders only address the technology component – or the human component – without successfully marrying the two, patient matching will remain a pipe dream, according to CIOs Michael Martz and Albert Oriol.
As IT plays an increasingly larger role in the healthcare organization’s strategy, something as critical as the service desk can’t be overlooked. In fact, it should be a key focus, according to our panelists.
Unlike in years past, healthcare IT leaders now have access to some of the most influential rule makers and legislators, making it all the more critical to keep plugging away and “shoot for something better,” says CIO Michael Martz.
If CIOs want to move past the stereotype of “data plumber,” you must “make sure you’re recognized first as an executive, and second as someone who happens to run IT,” says Michael Martz, who offers insights on how to do that.
Mike Martz talks about the tremendous value that testing and support play in implementing a new system, how moving to Meditech 6.1 is “an excuse to drive change,” and the role IT plays in collaborating with other hospitals.
The biggest advantage in leading a second organization through the transition from Meditech Magic to 6.1? Being able to apply lessons learned from round one, says CIO Michael Martz.
From Seattle to PA
First healthcare CIO role — “I’m constantly on a learning curve”
Meadville’s “strong focus on virtualization”
Downtime for “the most absurd reason”
His leadership philosophy — “It’s figuring out how to serve them.”
Being beta tester #1
Thoughts on MU — “It’s given us better information on the patient.”
Using health coaches
Meds reconciliation — “It was wrong about 98 percent of the time”
Reducing readmissions & ED visits
Standalone hospital in a large IDN world
Being a “major economic force” in the area
About Meadville MC
Migrating from Magic to 6.1
Beta site for Meditech’s web-based ambulatory product
“We definitely approach it with our eyes wide open.”
Getting practices on a single unified system
Challenges with CPOE & public reporting interfaces — “That kept us sweating for a while”
Using consultants to help with “heavy lifting”
