Laguna Honda enhances staff training to improve documentation with EPIC system

In a recent meeting held by the City of San Francisco, discussions centered around the implementation of the EPIC electronic health record system at Laguna Honda, a skilled nursing facility. The meeting highlighted the significant changes in how staff document resident experiences and the challenges they face in adapting to this new technology.

A key focus was on enhancing support for staff at the unit level. The conversation emphasized the importance of immediate assistance from colleagues, referred to as "super users," who are well-versed in the EPIC system. This on-the-spot learning approach is seen as more effective than traditional training methods, which often take place in a controlled environment and may not translate well to real-world scenarios. The goal is to create a supportive environment where staff can easily seek help when they encounter difficulties, thereby improving documentation practices.

The meeting also addressed the need for additional training resources. There was a suggestion to utilize external support from EPIC representatives to expedite the training of super users. This would help ensure that staff receive the necessary guidance as they transition to the new system, which is tailored specifically for the unique needs of Laguna Honda.

Another significant topic discussed was the challenges of adapting care plans within the EPIC system. Unlike other healthcare settings, Laguna Honda requires long-term care plans that evolve over time. The meeting underscored the necessity for these care plans to be dynamic documents that accurately reflect the ongoing needs of residents, which has been a point of concern since the system's implementation in February 2019.

Additionally, the conversation touched on the potential for attracting talent from the tech industry, particularly in light of recent layoffs. However, it was noted that while there is interest in public service, the disparity in salary and the specialized knowledge required for health-related software can hinder recruitment efforts. The focus remains on finding mission-driven individuals who are willing to contribute to public health, despite the challenges posed by salary differences compared to the private sector.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing efforts to improve the use of the EPIC system at Laguna Honda. By fostering a supportive training environment and addressing the specific needs of long-term care documentation, the city aims to enhance the quality of care provided to residents. The discussions also highlighted the complexities of workforce recruitment in the public sector, particularly in the context of the evolving tech landscape. As these initiatives progress, the city anticipates further improvements in both staff training and resident care documentation.