In-Person Training Prepares County ‘Super Users’ for Semi-Statewide EHR Launch
Key Staff: John Fitzgerald, Chief Informatics Officer
Earlier this month, CalMHSA hosted several hundred county staff from around the state at a two-day on-site training in advance of launching the new semi-statewide electronic health record (EHR) system for 23 counties on July 1. The new EHR has been designed and implemented specifically for county behavioral health care providers and those whose care they provide.
It is a system that reflects the needs of county clinicians and direct service staff, who want to focus more time on caring for the individuals who need them, and it is a system that helps to tell a complete story about the Californians in their care.
It also integrates changes to CalAIM, including documentation redesign, payment reform, and data exchange.
At the final push of in-person training, county “super users” received hands-on demonstration of and practice with system functions and workflows; explanations of the regulations on which they are based; and the support process between counties, CalMHSA, and the system vendor. Attendees also had an opportunity to communicate with their colleagues through group collaboration boards and discussion sessions.
While CalMHSA’s current focus is ensuring the EHR is ready for counties to begin using it by July 1, we will also continue to expand its design and functionality. In the coming months, we will also bring on board more counties interested in participating, as we work to support counties with innovating their work and their systems.
June 27, 2023
