Glacial Ridge Health System recently announced a significant advancement in its commitment to enhancing patient care – the transition to a new and improved Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system. The current EMR system is aging out and will no longer be supported by our vendor, so change was necessary, it was stated in a news release.  Selecting a new EMR has been a thorough process that began in 2022; the EMR team at Glacial Ridge decided on MEDITECH Expanse to best serve patients in our rural healthcare system. 

This transition is a sizeable change for all staff, and the implementation team is dedicated to minimizing patient and staff inconveniences, it was stated.  Staff are and will continue to receive extensive training to make the process as seamless as possible.

The transition to the new EMR system will occur on December 1, 2023. Please be aware:

•GRHS is reducing the number of scheduled clinic appointments in December so staff can work in the new system without falling behind. 

•You may experience longer wait times in December as staff continue to become more efficient in the new system. Please be patient.

•Receptionists will need to scan your driver’s license or state ID along with a current insurance card.

•The billing system is also changing so in January, patients may receive two statements  for visits before and after December 1. Additional information will be mailed. 

•This transition does require patients to set up a new patient portal account. Further information, frequently asked questions, and detailed instructions will be updated on our Patient Portal webpage in the next few weeks. 

GRHS staff sincerely appreciate patients’ understanding during this transition, especially in December, it was stated. “We are excited about the improvements and look forward to continuing to provide the high-quality care our patients deserve.”