Workflow Tool Examples

Too often clinics believe workflow should only be assessed after a vendor product has been selected and just before the health IT is implemented. By understanding workflows and preparing for changes to them throughout the planning and implementation process, a clinic is better prepared for the workflow changes postimplementation.


Below are the various stages associated with health IT implementation and use. For each stage, key workflow assessment activities are listed. When selecting a specific activity, you are then provided with an example of the tool and a more complete description of its use.


Determining system requirements Selecting a vendor Preparing for implementation Using the system postimplementation
Step 1 Step 1 Step 1 Step 1
Create checklists of tasks and system requirements Have providers, clerks, and others test the system Map proposed workflows Assess workflows and adjust them, if necessary
Step 2 Step 2 Step 2 Step 2
Create flowcharts of key processes Talk with other users of the system Identify potential issues with system use Use health IT system for process improvement
Step 3
Finalize workflows
Determining system requirements
Step 2
Create checklists of tasks and system requirements
Step 2
Create flowcharts of key processes
Selecting a vendor
Step 2
Have providers, clerks, and others test the system
Step 2
Talk with other users of the system
Preparing for implementation
Step 2
Map proposed workflows
Step 2
Identify potential issues with system use
Step 2
Finalize workflows
Using the system postimplementation
Step 2
Assess workflows and adjust them, if necessary
Step 2
Use health IT system for process improvement