Digital Health Records & Locum Workflow: EMR Tips for Temporary Doctors

As Ireland’s healthcare system continues to digitise, electronic medical records (EMRs) have become a fundamental part of clinical workflows. For locum doctors, who often move between various healthcare settings, understanding how to work efficiently with different EMR platforms is essential to providing quality care and maintaining smooth handovers.

In this blog, we explore how locum doctors can get to grips with EMRs quickly, what systems are commonly used in Ireland, and key strategies for making the most of digital health tools during short-term placements.

The Rise of EMRs in Irish Healthcare

EMRs have been widely adopted across both public (HSE) and private healthcare settings in Ireland. The Health Service Executive continues to implement digital health initiatives like the eHealth Ireland programme, aiming for a connected care model through platforms such as Socrates, Helix Health, Health One, and IPMS. These systems aim to improve patient outcomes, data access, and administrative efficiency but for locum professionals unfamiliar with them, they can present onboarding challenges.

Common EMR Challenges for Locum Doctors

1. System Variability:

Each facility may use a different EMR, with varied interfaces, terminology, and workflows.

2. Limited Onboarding Time:

Locums may receive only brief orientation, or none at all, leaving them to learn systems on the go.

3. Data Input Errors:

In unfamiliar systems, there's a greater risk of inputting data incorrectly or overlooking mandatory fields.

4. Reduced Efficiency:

Time spent learning new systems can eat into consultation time and impact the doctor’s day-to-day flow.

EMR Tips to Enhance Locum Workflow

1. Ask About the System in Advance

Before starting any assignment, ask the practice manager or agency what EMR platform is in use. Request access to tutorials or user guides, if needed and available.

2. Arrive Early on Day One

Even 30 minutes before your first shift can make a difference. Use this time to get login credentials, familiarise yourself with the system layout, and ask questions.

3. Create a Quick Reference Sheet

If permitted, keep a handwritten or secure digital note of common navigation steps (e.g., how to add a prescription or view past notes). Avoid writing down sensitive data or passwords.

4. Master Templates and Shortcuts

Most EMRs offer consultation templates or autocomplete shortcuts. Learn how to use these to speed up note-taking without sacrificing quality.

5. Double Check Before Submitting

Whether it’s a prescription, test order, or discharge summary, take an extra moment to review your entries. Consistency and accuracy are vital, especially for continuity of care.

6. Give Feedback for Future Locums

If the onboarding or EMR access was difficult, provide constructive feedback to the practice. This can help them improve the locum experience for the next doctor.

Conclusion

Consider requesting what EMR platform your next placement is using prior to start date. Keeping yourself EMR-ready boosts your confidence and professional image.

For locum doctors, the ability to adapt quickly to different digital health systems is not just a nice-to-have, it’s essential. With a little preparation and a few proven strategies, you can navigate EMRs with confidence, deliver effective care, and leave a positive impression wherever you're placed.

Get in touch with our dedicated team as we nurture a community in which locums can flourish and extend exceptional care to their patients. For more information on any of our roles contact a member of our Locum Express team on +353 (0)21 4297901 or email us at info@locumexpress.ie. You can also register online here.