David Danhauer, MD, chief medical information officer at Owensboro (Ky.) Medical Health System, discusses which aspects of healthcare need innovation most and improving provider satisfaction by streamlining workflows.
Responses are lightly edited for clarity and length.
Question: How did you become a CMIO? What is your background and what advice do you have for aspiring CMIOs?
David Danhauer: After extensive interest in computer technology, I integrated that technology in the billing side of my private practice. With the advent of EMRs, I worked closely with our hospital system to leverage their EMR into my practice, allowing seamless continuity of care for my patients. As the hospital began to move to a new enterprise EMR, I agreed to help and transitioned to a part-time physician champion. Shortly into the process, the system recognized the need for a full-time CMIO and I moved to that role, full time, six years ago.
Q: What is the vision for your team in 2019? How will you approach your role and meeting your goals?
DD: Our IT, first priority is to work closely with the entire organization on clarifying strategic initiatives and the associated technology. We are streamlining our portfolio of products and vendors while maximizing the current core vendors and products. Adding to provider satisfaction by streamlining workflows, improved technologies and better ongoing training and support lead my personal initiatives.
Q: Where do you see the biggest need for innovation to improve the healthcare system in the future?
DD: Interoperability, integrated clinical communications and streamlined clinician workflows.
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