HGMH launches Epic, connecting patients and care teams across the region

Hôpital Glengarry Memorial Hospital (HGMH) has officially launched Epic, its new electronic health record system, marking an important step toward more connected care for patients and families.

Through its participation in the Atlas Alliance, HGMH is now one of 18 health care organizations who share a secure electronic health record system. When patients receive care at an Atlas Alliance partner organization, authorized care teams can securely access information recorded in the shared system. This includes medications, allergies, previous care and test results. Having this information available helps care teams work together and make informed decisions about a patient’s care.

“This is a historic milestone for HGMH, but what matters most is what it means for our community,” said Robert Alldred-Hughes, President and CEO. “When patients need care at different hospitals, their health information should follow them. Epic helps connect those pieces, giving care teams the information they need to support safe, coordinated care.”

As part of the transition, MyChart has replaced Connected Care as HGMH’s patient portal. Patients can view available test results, information, and appointments from participating organizations in one account.

Patients who already use MyChart through hospitals that are already a part of the Atlas Alliance such as The Ottawa Hospital, the Ottawa Heart Institute, Hawkesbury, Winchester or Kemptville hospitals can continue using their existing account.

The last three years of health record information will be transferred to MyChart. Older records remain available by contacting HGMH’s Health Records department.

The launch follows a year of preparation, training and collaboration across HGMH. Staff and physicians have worked to learn new workflows while continuing to care for the community.

“I am incredibly proud of the dedication, resilience and teamwork that brought us to this moment,” added Alldred-Hughes. “Walking through the hospital on launch day, I saw colleagues supporting one another, solving problems and keeping patient care at the centre of everything they did. A special thank you to the entire team.”

As teams become familiar with the new system, patients may experience longer wait times than usual. HGMH thanks the community for its patience and understanding during this transition. Safe, quality care remains the hospital’s priority.

To learn more about Epic and how to access MyChart, visit www.hgmh.on.ca.

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