HIMSS15 Preview: MidMichigan Health to Showcase Benefits of Integrating Single Sign On with Virtual Desktop Roaming

 

Scott Barker


HIMSS15 is just two weeks away, and Imprivata will once again feature a theater in our booth (#3848) at which our customers will share their success stories, lessons learned, and best practices using Imprivata solutions.

One of our presenters is Jonathan May, senior systems administrator at MidMichigan Health, a 481-bed health system based in Midland, Mich. Jonathan will showcase how his organizations leverages Imprivata   OneSign® for fast, secure clinical access, including to virtual desktops powered by VMware to give MidMichigan’s 500+ physicians roaming access to their EMRs and other applications at the point of care.

Q: Jonathan, Can you give us some background on what led you to seek out a solution like OneSign?

A: Yes, it’s quite simple, really. We had a very clear goal in mind. We wanted to create a fast portable and consistent workspace that would increase care provider adoption of the EMR. Clinicians are in their line of work to provide healthcare, treat patients and ultimately help other people. They didn’t take the job to fumble around with technology.  

We have two different EMR systems. For inpatient, we have Cerner – delivered by Citrix. For outpatient, we have Allscripts, also delivered through Citrix.  As we set out to architect a solution that would help us to achieve our goal, we found two products that go together like nice cheese and fine wine: VMWare View and Imprivata OneSign. The solution we’ve put in place has been a big success, and we’ve even coined a slogan for our solution – the three T’s: Tap, Turn and Treat.

Q: You started with Imprivata OneSign in 2010. Now that the implementation is more mature, what’s next?

A: System-wide VMware View roaming virtual desktop with integration with Imprivata OneSign has given our providers a workspace that won’t get in the way of patient care. Now we’re turning our attention towards a communication solution that can do the same. We’re looking towards integration with Imprivata Cortext®. With Imprivata Cortext, we can provide clinicians with tools that allow them to perform the same consistent communication workflows they’re used to, but in a more efficient manner. I’m even using Cortext to better communicate with physicians.

Q: What other exciting topics will you be covering during your presentation at HIMSS15?

A: We’re really just scratching the surface with EMR adoption, workflow efficiency and secure communications. The initiatives I’ve described have had a really interesting impact on other critical areas of focus for our health system. We’ve seen some interesting effects on our patient satisfaction scores, our reimbursement levels and even our revenue.  I also have some helpful best practices and tips and tricks to share – particularly around fast roaming.