U.S. adoption of computerized physician order entry systems.
This study discovered that implementation of computerized physician order entry (CPOE) systems is a greater reflection of hospital ownership and teaching status than hospital profitability. Using Leapfrog survey data derived from their efforts to reward CPOE adoption, investigators present findings from hospitals with varying degrees of operational CPOE systems. While many have argued that limitation in resources prevents wider implementation, these findings counter those explanations. Interestingly, government hospitals represented the most likely adopters and for-profit organizations the least likely, adding to the notion that these systems are not intended to provide significant profits. Findings suggest that other factors, such as caring for the sickest patients or political interests in safety, may partly explain the results. The authors express concern that less than 5% of hospitals are in compliance with CPOE standards and that changes in the reimbursement environment through federal initiatives may provide necessary stimulus.