Presentation
Positive Variants: Learning From Exceptional Performers for Electronic Health Record Modernization
DescriptionThis paper presents a conceptual review of three distinct but related research streams—exceptional performers, stars, and positive variants—and their application to Electronic Health Record Modernization (EHRM) efforts at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Exceptional performers and stars, well-studied in fields such as transportation security and organizational management, provide foundational insights into identifying and learning from individuals who consistently excel. The Positive Deviance approach, widely used in healthcare, focuses on high performers who succeed despite shared resource constraints. We describe a mixed-methods study underway at the VA that adapts these approaches to identify high-performing clinical units using a newly implemented Federal EHR. Positive variants are identified through analysis of user experience (UX) survey results, focusing on units scoring highest in confidence and efficiency. Follow-up interviews aim to uncover local initiatives that enhance UX and inform scalable change management strategies. Our approach modifies traditional Positive Deviance methods by prioritizing unit-level over individual performance and leveraging subjective UX data. This methodology minimizes clinician burden while maximizing insights into operational best practices. Findings will contribute to EHRM improvements within VA and offer human factors practitioners broader guidance for studying and applying lessons from exceptional performers across healthcare and other complex systems.
Event Type
Industry/Practitioner Content
Lecture
TimeWednesday, October 15th3:20pm - 3:40pm CDT
LocationGrand C/D North
Health Care
Similar Presentations