Genesis Health System Integrates EHR with Vocera 

Vocera Communications, Inc. announced the results of an analysis performed at Genesis Health System. At the conclusion of the case study, Genesis Health System showed improved responsiveness, accuracy and overall patient care following the integration of Vocera's wireless communication system with Cerner's electronic health record (EHR).

The integrated solution enables notifications of stat orders and other critical information from Cerner to be sent directly to care team members on their Vocera devices, significantly reducing delays in communication. Vocera provides a comprehensive wireless communication system, including the hands-free Vocera Badge, and smartphone applications for Apple iPhone, Android and Cisco phones.

"The combination of audible alerts, delivery of text messages, and the ability to review messages makes it easy for the right message to reach the right person at the right time in the right context – so each stat order is carried out in an accurate and timely manner," said Shirley Gusta, IT manager of client services for Genesis Health System. "Integrating our processes with Vocera has improved our workflow so much that orders are sent within 10 to 30 seconds of physicians placing them, and they can be carried out nearly instantaneously. Plus, it provides guaranteed communication that can be reviewed after the fact."

Named "Most Wired" by Hospitals and Health Networks magazine for 10 straight years, Genesis has implemented Cerner's Millennium EHR throughout its operations, and is seeking additional ways to leverage the integration between Cerner and Vocera to optimize key clinical workflows.