I’m having trouble understanding how to efficiently use Epic Software for my tasks. I feel lost with some features and their applications. Can someone break it down or guide me on effective steps to streamline my workflow?
Okay, so Epic Software. It’s like this magical toolbox everyone expects you to just… know how to use, right? Honestly, it can be frustrating till you figure out the shortcuts. First thing: focus on SmartTools. SmartPhrases and SmartLinks are your best friends. They’re customizable templates that save you from typing the same thing over and over—like pre-charting or repetitive notes. There’s actually a huge list of prebuilt ones you can use, but you can make your own too.
Next, Inbox management—ugh, it’s a beast if you don’t have a system. Set up filters and routing rules so irrelevant stuff doesn’t pile up. No one wants to sort through 50 overdue refill reminders that could’ve been handled automatically. Also, Personalization is a MUST. Build those custom order sets and drop-down menus so you’re not endlessly scrolling through irrelevant options when, you know, you just need Tylenol.
Reports? Pull patient lists for specific groups or create dashboards—this is gold for tracking your workflow. Use filters wisely, like ages, conditions, or due dates for appointments.
Oh, and if you’re drowning in questions… there’s training modules (yeah, I know, boring) or even ‘tip sheets’ built into Epic. Please promise me you won’t just aimlessly click things, ‘cause messing with system settings is a whole spiral.
Final advice: Don’t fight Epic, make it work for you. Tell your team to share their workflow hacks—they’ve probably figured out cool ways to speed things up.
Epic Software, huh? Okay, let me just say it’s a love-hate relationship for most people. While @viajeroceleste made some solid points (especially on SmartTools—seriously, lifesavers), I think there are a few other things worth adding or disagreeing on.
Firstly, the personalization aspect they mentioned? Yes, it’s vital, but don’t over-customize. I’ve seen people create SO many custom order sets and templates that they end up drowning in their own systems. Keep it tight and only build what’s essential for your most frequent tasks. The more bells and whistles you add, the harder it is to maintain consistency.
Second, Chart Review—this tool is seriously underutilized. Instead of endlessly scrolling through a patient’s chart, learn how to use “Filters” and “Show Columns” features effectively. This will let you pick and display only what YOU need—meds, labs, or whatever—without sifting through irrelevant details. Trust me, it speeds things up when you’re in crunch mode.
Also, workflows can be totally different across departments. What works great for someone in, say, family medicine might be a complete fail for you in pediatrics or oncology. So talk to people in YOUR specialty and see what specific tweaks they’ve done to optimize their tasks.
I’m a bit meh on Inbox filters, honestly. While it’s helpful, the system rules can sometimes be too rigid or misdirect messages, which can lead to you missing critical info (been there—it wasn’t fun). I prefer re-prioritizing messages myself as they come in, though that might just be me being a micromanaging control freak. 
Lastly, one hack I love? Keyboard shortcuts—I live for these. You can’t maximize speed without memorizing a few keystrokes, like F2 for jumping to the next field in notes or using quick text navigation. It might seem “minor,” but in long shifts, the seconds add up.
If you’re feeling seriously lost, maybe pair with someone on your team who’s been there longer, rather than hoping Epic’s training modules will save you. Let’s be honest, those are dry as toast anyway. Find your rhythm. You’ll get through it!