This is an excerpt from a member-only article. To read the article in its entirety, please login or subscribe.

Electronic medical records (EMR) are being touted as a new, inventive way of improving healthcare quality and the profit of some medical practices. In order for small and large practices to get on board, providers need to evaluate some of the barriers to widespread adoption of EMR systems, including certification, transition management, and financing. "It's definitely an exciting time," says Jeffery Daigrepont, principal of The Coker Group in Atlanta and director of its technology division. "There are a lot of opportunities to improve the quality of life, but it requires a lot of change, and in many cases, a big up-front investment."