Ophthalmology combines dense measurement and imaging data with serial follow-up and tightly controlled surgery. A generic record without careful configuration quickly creates duplicate work.
Start with ophthalmic workflows
Map each pathway: referral, triage, refraction, diagnostics, indication, informed consent, surgery and follow-up. The EHR should handle left and right consistently and display measurements with device, date and context.
- Structured acuity, pressure and refraction.
- Integration or controlled import for OCT, biometry and imaging.
- Surgical scheduling, time-out and implant records.
- Outcome and complication recording.
Safety around procedures
Expose critical checks in the workflow: patient, eye, procedure, lens calculation, selected implant and competent team. Templates may improve speed but must allow exceptions and clinical rationale. Changes should remain traceable in the audit log.
Interoperability and availability
Do not assess integrations merely by the existence of an interface. Test mapping, error handling, duplicate patients and outage operation. Account for the Dutch move toward mandated electronic exchange under Wegiz.
- Ask for supported standards and version control.
- Test a realistic end-to-end workflow.
- Document fallback and reconciliation.
- Assess exports for patients and subsequent providers.
Select with a practical scenario
Have every vendor complete the same cataract or outpatient case. Score time, clicks, error risk and completeness. Include ophthalmologists, optometrists, theatre staff, scheduling and administration because each sees different risks.
Frequently asked questions
Must devices connect directly to the EHR?
Not always, but manual transfer raises workload and error risk. Assess volume, controls and downtime scenarios.
How can an EHR reduce laterality errors?
Use consistent laterality, visible verification, warnings and the surgical time-out; technology does not replace the check.
Who should take part in selection?
Include clinical, allied health, theatre, scheduling, administration, privacy/security and system-management roles.
Official sources
This guide provides general information, not legal or medical advice. Always verify current official requirements for your circumstances.