Emergency department providers are largely dissatisfied with the interoperability and usability of their ED information systems, according to a new survey by Black Book, Healthcare IT News reports.

The survey, which was conducted between August and October, polled:

• 738 ED administrative and nursing managers; and
• 1,104 ED physicians.

Survey Findings

The survey found that 39% of respondents said they were moderately to highly dissatisfied with their current ED information system. Further, 72% said they were dissatisfied with their system's interoperability and usability.

According to the survey, 89% of respondents said they thought their hospital had rushed its purchase of electronic health record and ED information systems "for meaningful use dollars, just to see productivity fall, liability rise and connectivity stall."

Under the 2009 economic stimulus package, providers who demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHRs can qualify for Medicaid and Medicare incentive payments (McCarthy, Healthcare IT News, 10/29).

According to the survey, 35% of hospitals with more than 150 beds are in the process of or planning to replace their ED information systems next year (Murphy, EHR Intelligence, 10/29). However, 90% of respondents said they believe they have been forced to make generic hospital-wide EHR systems work or have been denied funds to replace their systems.

Meanwhile, replacing ED information systems could improve reporting capabilities and customer services outcomes, as well as reduce visit costs by up to 12%, according to the survey (Healthcare IT News, 10/29).