HR Training Holds the Key to Reducing Physician Turnover, Reveals Klas Report

Physician turnover continues to be a pressing concern within the healthcare industry, but a recent white paper from the Klas Arch Collaborative suggests that the solution may lie in providing additional training in electronic health records (EHRs). The report, titled "Understanding Your Risk for Physician Turnover," reveals that a significant percentage of physicians who left their jobs expressed a desire for more comprehensive training in EHR systems.

According to the survey conducted by the Klas Arch Collaborative, 67% of physicians who left their organizations cited a need for enhanced EHR training. This finding highlights the crucial role that EHRs play in physician job satisfaction and overall retention. Additionally, the report indicates that physicians who changed their minds about leaving their positions reported a reduction in after-hours work and a less chaotic work environment, both of which contribute to burnout.

Among the physicians who participated in the study, those who indicated a high likelihood of leaving their jobs were 15 times more likely to follow through with their plans compared to those who expressed a low likelihood of leaving. The survey results also revealed that physicians who reconsidered their decision to leave were more likely to recognize the benefits of EHRs in promoting patient safety, preventing errors through alerts, and enabling patient-centered care.

To address these challenges and mitigate physician turnover, the Klas Arch Collaborative outlined several actionable steps that healthcare organizations can take to improve EHR workflows. For instance, creating structured schedules for EHR testing and training, as implemented by Bellin Health in Wisconsin, can help alleviate the burden on clinicians and streamline workflow processes. Furthermore, leveraging EHR data to generate reports on chart-closure rates can facilitate the resolution of backlogs and reduce the need for after-hours charting.

The report also suggests that personalization tools and macros within EHR systems can significantly enhance efficiency and user satisfaction. By tailoring EHR personalization to meet the specific needs of physicians, organizations can create a more reliable and efficient system, ultimately leading to greater overall provider satisfaction.

In light of these findings, the Klas Arch Collaborative emphasizes the importance of equipping physicians with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate EHR systems effectively. By investing in comprehensive EHR training programs, healthcare systems have the potential to reverse the concerning trend of physician turnover, ultimately leading to improved patient care and organizational success.

As the healthcare industry continues to evolve and place greater reliance on digital technologies, prioritizing EHR training and optimizing workflows will become paramount in ensuring physician satisfaction and retention. By addressing these key areas, healthcare organizations can foster a positive work environment, enhance patient outcomes, and pave the way for a more sustainable future in healthcare delivery.