Jefferson Health has focused on implementing the Epic electronic health record (EHR) system across its multi-hospital network. In 2023, informatics took advantage of the interval between implementations to focus on optimization efforts aimed at improving EHR wellness for nurses. According to NEAT data, Jefferson Health nurses were averaging 160 minutes per 12-hour shift on documentation, which is 30 minutes above the industry benchmark. Like many healthcare organizations, Jefferson faces ongoing demands for new workflows within the EHR. To address these demands and prioritize nurse support, Project Starlight was launched, focusing on initiatives that reduce burden rather than add steps or requirements to Epic workflows.

Recognizing that adoption is critical yet challenging when implementing new tools or workflows, informatics developed a standardized set of resources for Project Starlight to educate and engage nurses on targeted efficiency improvements. Additionally, an EHR wellness section was incorporated into the informatics newsletter, which highlights positive outcomes from optimization efforts, showcasing direct impacts on nursing workflows. Project Starlight’s initiatives are implemented on a staggered timeline every few months, an approach that has helped maintain steady visibility with nursing staff and aligns with strategic goals. To foster adoption of these EHR efficiencies, informatics also established the clinical informatics champion program. This peer-support program empowers select nurses to provide training and feedback on EHR updates, specifically focusing on features that alleviate workload. Champions regularly review new features and efficiency tips, offering feedback tailored to specific nursing specialties.

To balance Project Starlight with competing priorities, informatics also created FLO zones, dedicated in-person work sessions held weekly to focus on advancing Project Starlight initiatives. These sessions bring together key informatics team members to strategize, design, and plan change management timelines. The FLO zones also incorporate a standard approach for onboarding the entire informatics team to each new initiative, including a focus on the “why” behind these efforts.

Outcome measurement is integral to Project Starlight’s success. Informatics partnered with the business intelligence team to create dashboards based on key performance indicators (KPIs) set for each initiative. These dashboards enable continuous assessment of progress, guiding future projects and identifying units that may require additional support due to lower adoption rates.

Through Project Starlight, Jefferson Health aims to streamline the EHR experience, reduce nurse documentation time, and foster a supportive culture around EHR use. The combination of strategic planning, peer support, and regular outcome measurement ensures that Project Starlight remains focused on optimizing nursing workflows, promoting both adoption and long-term sustainability of EHR improvements.

Giuliana LaBella MSN, BA, RN

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