Frances Spreer Albert, CPA Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Financial Officer of Albany Medical Center | Albany Medical Health System
Frances Spreer Albert, CPA Senior Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Financial Officer of Albany Medical Center | Albany Medical Health System
The Albany Med Health System has implemented a new electronic medical record (EMR) system, described as "transparent, comprehensive, efficient" by Elena LeBarron, RN, nurse clinical coordinator at Saratoga Hospital. The transition to the Epic platform took place in November 2024 and involved Columbia Memorial Health, Glens Falls Hospital, and Saratoga Hospital joining Albany Medical Center in adopting this unified EMR platform.
This initiative aims to centralize patient records and improve care delivery across the health system. Epic replaces multiple independent EMR systems previously used within the system. Now, all members of a patient's care team have seamless access to their records regardless of location.
LeBarron noted that "medical information has been centralized into one complete and comprehensive EMR platform accessible by health care staff throughout the Health System and the patients as well." This centralization is intended to enhance transparency for patients and empower them to be more involved in their care.
Epic also introduced MyChart, a patient portal designed for secure access to personal health information. Patients can view test results promptly, manage appointments, request prescription refills, communicate with doctors, and receive real-time updates during hospital stays. The portal links test results with educational materials about those tests.
Patients appreciate having all their information consolidated. LeBarron shared that some patients have expressed satisfaction with using MyChart for tracking appointments and accessing essential details like provider names or facility addresses.
For employees within the system, Epic simplifies access to patient records across departments and campuses. It reduces reliance on paper processes by allowing easy viewing of documentation from other hospitals within the system. LeBarron highlighted that "the information sharing and inter-facility availability is a significant improvement."
Robert Magee, MD from Columbia Memorial Health acknowledged an initial learning curve but noted quick staff adaptation. He stated that "we are already seeing benefits to the standardization of a medical record," which enhances efficiency and patient care.
The EMR launch was supported by collaborative efforts among Albany Med Health System employees who provided training and assistance during implementation. LeBarron expressed gratitude for the support received throughout this transition period.
Alerts Sign-up