Licking Memorial Health Systems (LMHS) has implemented a new electronic health record (EHR).  The new EHR was designed by Epic Systems Corporation, and LMHS worked diligently with Epic throughout the past year to ensure the timely launch of the new system.  “LMHS is pleased to offer this new state-of-the-art system that will enhance productivity to serve the community more effectively,” said LMHS President & CEO Rob Montagnese.
 
Despite challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, employees from the Information Systems (IS) Department and personnel from various clinical and operational departments were able to work remotely with representatives from Epic to perform the workflow and application testing, ensuring that details and personalization specific to LMHS were correct and working properly.  “Everyone involved in the Epic project worked tirelessly to ensure that the product launched on time, and we are proud of this great accomplishment,” said Rob.
 
The go-live occurred from February 26 to February 27.  Between 12:00 Midnight and 4:00 a.m., on February 27, the old system was taken offline and all systems and equipment were switched over to Epic.  The Epic system was officially live as of 4:00 a.m., on February 27.
 
Epic stores all patient records for Licking Memorial Hospital (LMH) and Licking Memorial Health Professionals (LMHP) within one system to allow for health information access and exchange throughout LMHS and in a nationwide network.  As a result, patients now will receive consolidated billing statements that provide concise information regarding their medical charges for both LMH and LMHP.  The consolidated statement provides a better representation of the current amount due by providing easy-to-follow billing and payment information.
 
Patients are able to view and pay medical bills through MyChart™, LMHS’ new patient portal.  MyChart offers secure online access to a patient’s complete health information in one convenient location.  The application also allows patients to schedule appointments, request prescription refills, access test results, send messages to physicians, and more – even if they have received care at multiple healthcare organizations.
 
Individuals may enroll in MyChart by visiting MyChart.LMHealth.org or downloading the free MyChart app on their smartphone or tablet from the Apple App Store or Google Play.  Click “Sign up Now” and follow the on-screen instructions to create an account.