Reducing Electronic Health Record Errors

Like many hospitals, SBH Health System uses the computerized provider order entry (CPOE) system. However, to reduce patient identification order entry errors, SBH Health System developed the Double Patient Identification Alert System. This system alerts the ordering clinician to identify and check the patient's date of birth and initials before placing an order. Implementing this in the hospital's emergency department during the eight-week pilot period resulted in a 35 percent decrease in CPOE near-miss events. Later, it increased to a 49 percent decline in all CPOE near-miss events. Because of its effectiveness, the alert system is implemented in the hospital's intensive care unit, surgical intensive care unit, and intermediate medical care unit.

This case study is part of the HANYS Triple Aim series highlighting how New York hospitals are improving health, enhancing quality and reducing costs. Hospitals, nursing homes and home care agencies across New York state are pursuing the Triple Aim. In spite of fiscal constraints, its members are embracing the challenge of transforming health care and are implementing new and innovative approaches to delivery