What is one of the major challenges of EHR implementation?

One of the major challenges of Electronic Health Record (EHR) implementation is the high initial costs without guaranteed ongoing benefits. Implementing an EHR system often requires significant financial investment in technology, software, training, and support. These upfront costs can be a barrier for many healthcare organizations, especially smaller practices or those with limited budgets. Although EHR systems have the potential to improve efficiency and patient care in the long term, these benefits are not always immediately realized, leading to skepticism among stakeholders regarding the return on investment.

The ongoing costs of maintenance, system upgrades, and staff training can further complicate the financial landscape of EHR adoption. Thus, while EHR systems are designed to enhance workflows and improve patient care, the initial economic burden can hinder their successful adoption and integration into daily healthcare practices. This aspect of cost and return on investment is a significant consideration for organizations when deciding whether to move forward with EHR implementation.