What significant barrier do smaller practices face in adopting EHR systems?

Smaller practices often encounter significant challenges when it comes to adopting Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems, with limited financial resources being a primary barrier. Implementing an EHR system can be costly, requiring not only the purchase of the software and hardware but also expenses related to training staff and ongoing maintenance. Smaller practices typically operate on tighter budgets, which may make it difficult to allocate funds for such investments. Additionally, they might lack the financial cushion to absorb the costs associated with potential disruptions during the transition to an EHR, further complicating the decision to adopt this technology.

While other factors, such as the complexity of EHR software and potential resistance from staff, can also pose challenges, these factors often stem from or are exacerbated by financial constraints. Without adequate financial resources, practices may feel that they cannot afford the time or effort necessary to overcome these complexities or address resistance effectively. Therefore, the lack of financial resources for implementation and training stands out as a fundamental barrier that hinders smaller practices from adopting EHR systems.