Cerner, the provider of the software being implemented as part of the Clinical & Systems Transformation (CST) project, has been contracted to provide implementation expertise to assist the team in completing the project.

“This is a new approach with our health organization people leading and delivering the project, supported by Cerner,” says Jeremy Smith, Chief Transformation Officer. “This model will build self-sufficiency, skills and capacity within our own teams at VCH, PHSA and PHC, and allow us to focus deeply on clinical and operational needs.”

Cerner has a history of hundreds of successful implementations across North America and worldwide. Cerner software is already in use in BC as the regional clinical information system across Island Health and Northern Health, and is used in some facilities within VCH and PHSA. Most recently, Cerner was also chosen by the US Department of Defense to upgrade one of the largest and most complex clinical information systems in the world.

There will be two phases to Cerner’s work. Phase One is an eight week planning phase to finalize a new integrated project plan, including scope and deliverables, and complete the design and build finalization plan. Cerner will be on site the week of Aug. 31, and Phase One will be complete by the end of October. Phase Two is a Design and Build phase, with milestone dates to be determined through the work of Phase One.

The cost of the agreement will be funded within the existing budget, out of funds previously allocated for work with IBM. The work is being procured as part of the existing Master Services Agreement already in place with Cerner, through PHSA.

“VCH, PHSA and PHC are more committed than ever to completing this project and achieving the goals for improving patient care,” says Jeremy. “The CST team is dedicated and passionate about the benefits CST will provide to patient care across our three organizations, and we’re working hard to realize them.”

What is CST?

CST is a project to improve patient care by making sure that our practices are evidence-based and supported by safe, reliable and consistent processes and information across clinical areas, and enabled by smarter technology, including an electronic health record. To learn more, visit CSTproject.ca.