[Steps to successful implementation of electronic health records]

Electronic health records are the foundation of electronic health services and achieving the benefits of electronic health requires the successful implementation of electronic health records in healthcare organizations. A practice guide for the implementation of electronic health records [EHR] is necessary. Introducing an approach to prevent the failures in implementation is the aim of this article. Project planning, defining the electronic health record throughout organization, setting appropriate expectations, choosing the proper technology and technology partner, accepting and promoting process changes and carefully planning the transition from paper-based processes to the electronic ones, ongoing evaluation and maintenance are the steps that organizations should consider for successful implementation of EHR