Review article

https://doi.org/10.20471/acc.2022.61.03.14

Implementation of the Nationwide Electronic Health Record System in Serbia: Challenges, Lessons Learned, and Early Outcomes

Berislav Vekić ; Department of Surgery, Clinical Centre “Dr Dragisa Misovic”, University of Belgrade, Faculty of Medicine, Belgrade, Serbia
Filip Pilipović ; Institute for Orthopedic and Surgical Diseases „Banjica“, Belgrade, Serbia
Viktorija Dragojević-Simić ; Centre for Clinical Pharmacology, Military Medical Academy; Medical Faculty, University of Defence, Belgrade, Serbia
Rastko Živić ; Clinical Centre “Dr Dragisa Misovic”, University of Belgrade, Faculty of Medicine, Belgrade, Serbia
Dragče Radovanović ; University of Kragujevac, Serbia, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Kragujevac, Serbia
Nemanja Rančić orcid.org/0000-0002-5122-8094 ; Centre for Clinical Pharmacology, Military Medical Academy; Medical Faculty, University of Defence, Belgrade, Serbia

Abstract

Objectives: Many countries around the world have recognized the need for using an
electronic health record (EHR) system. However, there is limited literature that could serve as a guide
during a lengthy and challenging process of planning, development, and implementation of the e-Health
system. Since the EHR system was recently introduced in Serbia, the purpose of this communication is to
describe our experience and lessons learned along the way. Methods: The key personnel involved in the implementation
of the EHR system in Serbia that began in 2015 conducted in 2019 a retrospective narrative
review of the process and early outcomes. Results: An incremental approach in the planning, development,
and implementation of the nationwide EHR system was taken. The process was split into phases with
the gradual introduction of different regions of the country. The gradual shift from the existing to a new
workflow for the prospective users was also implemented. The significant milestones were the achievement
of quick legislative changes, the hiring of a professional team of experts in the field, the provision of timely
and appropriate information and training to prospective users, the close collaboration between the implementation
team and the Ministry of Health and mutual understanding of the aims and expectations, and
the flexibility in accepting the evolving nature of the process, goals, and the system model. Conclusions:
A successful implementation of the nationwide EHR system is feasible providing careful planning, the
assembly of a multi-disciplinary team, the use of a stepwise approach, the early and continued involvement
of the intended users, and the willingness to make adjustments along the way. The end-result sets the stage
for the reform of the health care system itself.

Keywords

Electronic Health Record (EHR) System; E-health System; Electronic Medical Records (EMR); Development and Implementation; Serbia

Hrčak ID:

296152

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/296152

Publication date:

1.11.2022.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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