Pre-implementation checklist
This checklist will help you define details regarding users, devices and systems required for the successful rollout of your mHealth strategy.
Define your users
The most important decision is to choose who needs and would like to use a mobile device, then considering the type of devices they will need. Keep the following questions in mind:
- Does the device promote efficient workflow?
- Can the device secure patient information properly?
- Are there other devices that could be more appropriate for specific workflows?
Determine what systems your staff will need to access
After determining who your users are, you can identify which systems they will need to access. This includes drug references, electronic medical records and alerts from clinical systems.
It is important to determine what information users will be able to access, as this will determine what security requirements are needed.
Identify which mobile devices are in use at your practice
This well help you plan your practice operational processes and the level of support you can offer to your staff. This includes any staff members’ personal mobile devices that are also used for work-related and patient-related purposes. Your practice can then decide whether it allows practice-issued devices only, or a mix of practice-issued and personal devices.
You will also need to ensure that your current systems are compatible with the different operating systems on mobile devices and ensure the way they present information creates a positive user experience.
Establish who will pay for device data plans
Deciding whether your practice will allow a ‘bring your own device’ policy will help determine who pays for data plans, and will also impact on the level of control your practice has regarding device utilisation. For example, you may choose to pay for data plans or pay an allowance to staff members in order to cover a portion of their data plan based on their expected usage.
Consider a disaster response procedure
How do mobile devices fit into your disaster response procedure? For example, in the event of flooding, where landline phones are not working due to infrastructure being damaged, mobile networks often remain functional. Mobile devices are therefore often a key way of communicating to staff and the wider practice community in the event of a disaster.
Roll out a pilot
Run a small pilot with selected staff members in order to test the solution and policies.
|