Penn State Health’s Epic Transformation
Penn State Health, the six-hospital system based in Hershey, Pennsylvania, is embarking on a transformative digital health journey by implementing Epic’s comprehensive suite of artificial intelligence tools. This strategic decision marks a significant milestone for the regional academic health system as it prepares to enhance both patient care delivery and clinician workflow efficiency through advanced EHR technology.
The healthcare organization has committed to deploying Epic’s complete AI package, positioning itself at the forefront of healthcare innovation. This implementation represents more than just a technology upgrade—it signals Penn State Health’s commitment to creating a smarter, more integrated healthcare ecosystem that serves patients, clinicians, and the academic medical community.
Transitioning from Oracle Health/Cerner
After years of partnership with Oracle Health/Cerner, Penn State Health leadership recognized the need for enhanced capabilities that would support their evolution as a mature regional academic health system. Bill Reed, interim senior vice president and CIO of Penn State Health, explained that while Oracle Health/Cerner served the organization well, the growing complexity of their operations demanded additional functionalities.
Identifying System Limitations
As Penn State Health expanded its footprint and academic mission, gaps in their existing technology infrastructure became increasingly apparent. The organization required more sophisticated tools to support clinical decision-making, streamline administrative processes, and facilitate research activities across their network.
Evaluating Next-Generation Solutions
The decision to transition to Epic involved comprehensive evaluation of available EHR platforms and their ability to meet the organization’s evolving needs. Epic’s robust AI capabilities, integrated applications, and proven track record with academic medical centers made it the clear choice for Penn State Health’s future.
Comprehensive AI Integration Strategy
Penn State Health has contracted for Epic’s full artificial intelligence package, demonstrating their commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology. The organization is taking a strategic approach to AI deployment, carefully prioritizing which solutions will be available at go-live in the fourth quarter of 2026 and which will be introduced during the subsequent optimization period.
Phased AI Rollout
This measured approach allows the health system to ensure successful adoption of core AI functionalities while building capacity for more advanced features. The phased strategy minimizes disruption and allows clinical staff to gradually integrate AI-powered tools into their daily workflows.
Operational Efficiency and Cost Benefits
One of the most significant advantages of the Epic implementation is the ability to consolidate countless disparate applications into a unified platform. This consolidation will deliver immediate return on investment while substantially reducing the administrative burden on clinicians who currently navigate multiple systems.
Application Consolidation
Penn State Health currently operates multiple EHR platforms and revenue cycle systems across its network. The Epic implementation will enable the organization to sunset these legacy systems, creating a streamlined technology environment that enhances interoperability and data accessibility.
Financial Investment
While Penn State Health declined to disclose the specific dollar figure for the Epic project, Reed confirmed the investment aligns with typical costs for organizations of comparable size and scope. The long-term benefits of improved efficiency, enhanced patient satisfaction, and better clinical outcomes are expected to justify the substantial financial commitment.
Implementation Timeline and Preparation
Penn State Health began preparation for the Epic implementation in early 2025, focusing on workforce development and project team formation. The installation process officially commenced in June, with a targeted go-live date in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Workforce Expansion and Training
The organization has significantly expanded its IT and clinical informatics staffing to support the ambitious implementation timeline. More than 100 operational work groups have been established, with participants receiving comprehensive training to support the Epic rollout across the entire Penn State Health network.
Maryandra Walters, vice president and chief application officer of Penn State Health, emphasized the breadth of organizational engagement. These work groups represent diverse departments and specialties, ensuring that the Epic implementation addresses the unique needs of different clinical and administrative areas.
Enhanced Patient and Clinician Experience
The Epic implementation promises substantial improvements for both healthcare providers and patients. Clinicians are enthusiastically anticipating access to advanced clinical decision support tools, streamlined documentation capabilities, and more intuitive workflows that will allow them to focus more time on direct patient care.
Integrated Patient Portal
Patients will benefit from a more seamless and integrated portal experience, providing easier access to medical records, appointment scheduling, test results, and communication with care teams. This enhanced digital front door will improve patient engagement and satisfaction while supporting better health outcomes.
Academic and Research Advancement
As an academic medical center, Penn State Health places significant emphasis on research capabilities. The Epic platform will deliver substantial improvements in research data collection, analysis, and collaboration opportunities for Penn State’s medical school faculty and students.
Research Infrastructure Enhancement
Epic’s robust research tools will facilitate clinical trials management, population health studies, and quality improvement initiatives. The integrated data environment will enable researchers to more easily identify patient cohorts, track outcomes, and generate insights that advance medical knowledge.
Strategic Implementation Approach
Penn State Health is following Epic’s prescriptive implementation methodology, adopting foundational EHR configurations that have proven successful at other organizations. This approach, as Reed described it, helps keep the “train on the tracks” by leveraging best practices rather than excessive customization.
Managing Change and Building Enthusiasm
Leadership acknowledges that any transformation of this magnitude involves some uncertainty. However, Reed reports that excitement and anticipation throughout the organization far outweigh any trepidation. The positive sentiment reflects confidence in Epic’s capabilities and Penn State Health’s thorough preparation process.
Walters summed up the organization’s vision: “Epic will help us build a smarter and more connected future for our health system and the academic community.” This implementation represents Penn State Health’s commitment to delivering exceptional care through innovative technology solutions.
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