Successfully transitioning to a new electronic health record (EHR) system is a major milestone for any medical practice. The DrChrono EHR implementation process is designed to make this transition smooth through structured training, defined timelines, and dedicated support. 

Whether you're new to digital documentation or switching from another practice management system, this DrChrono setup guide walks you through every phase of onboarding. 

Step-By-Step EHR Onboarding Process

DrChrono offers a six-phase EHR onboarding process with hands-on, instructor-led sessions supported by self-service resources. The entire process is expected to be completed within 60 calendar days, ensuring your team is equipped to manage patient care and optimize clinical workflows efficiently. 

Week 0: Pre-Implementation Setup 

The journey begins with a ‘Kickoff Call’ led by your dedicated Implementation Specialist (IS). This session outlines the DrChrono EHR implementation roadmap, assigns responsibilities, and introduces key tools such as the ‘Enrollments Dashboard’. Early setup tasks include: 

  • Completing the onboarding form
  • Configuring account settings
  • Creating offices and adding staff
  • Submitting clinical forms
  • Preparing data for import
  • Initiating healthcare software integration with LabCorp/Quest and billing vendors
  • Providing a fee schedule for billing setup
  • Completing DrChrono payments enrollment
  • Preparing payer information for billing enrollments
  • Initiating enrollments through the ‘Enrollments dashboard’

This phase lays the foundation for the electronic health record transition. 

Week 1: Scheduling And Enrollment Training 

As you move into structured training, your team learns how to manage appointments, patient check-ins, and financial transactions. This includes: 

  • Building appointment and billing profiles
  • Configuring reminders, consent forms, and patient flags
  • Scheduling via the web and iPad app
  • Submitting payer enrollments (for Billing and RCM users)

Each session is held via web conferencing and lasts up to one hour. 

Week 2: Forms And Charting 

DrChrono's ‘Form Builder’ allows you to create custom clinical forms containing dropdowns, toggles, and free-text fields. Forms must be finalized three weeks before the training period ends. You’ll also be guided through: 

  • Electronic prescribing (eRx) and electronic prescribing of controlled substances (EPCS)
  • Macros and speech-to-text tools
  • Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs)
  • Completing clinical notes in the EHR

Week 3: Communication And OnPatient Training 

This phase focuses on using DrChrono’s communication tools effectively: 

  • ‘Message Center’ and faxing
  • Referrals and task management
  • ‘OnPatient’ patient portal setup
  • iPad EHR usage for clinical encounters

Weeks 4–5: Workflow Simulation And Go-Live 

During this week you run a complete mock workflow—from patient intake to encounter documentation. You’ll also finalize: 

  • Major payer enrollments 
  • Ceasing operations on your previous EHR 

Weeks 6–8: Post-Go-Live Support 

After go-live, your team will attend Q&A sessions to address real-time issues. Additional billing training is available for ‘Billing and RCM’ customers. Upon completion, you’ll officially graduate and be transitioned to DrChrono’s support team. 

Training Expectations And Resources

Throughout your DrChrono training, your designated ‘Superuser’ will lead the internal training efforts. The platform also provides: 

  • Recorded training sessions via email
  • Help Center guides and videos
  • Ongoing access to training materials

Missed or canceled sessions must be rescheduled in advance. Delays without notice may count against your allocated training hours. 

Notes On Responsibility And Success

To get the most out of your DrChrono EHR implementation, your practice is expected to: 

  • Complete all account setup tasks
  • Assign and support a reliable ‘Superuser’
  • Manage billing enrollments and payer communications
  • Fully participate in every training phase
  • Use the Help Center for post-go-live training

Taking The Next Step

A smooth implementation process can make all the difference between a system that supports your day-to-day operations and one that adds to the stress. With structured phases, clear timelines, and dedicated guidance, DrChrono gives your team the opportunity to start strong. Treat the onboarding period as a learning investment—one that builds confidence, streamlines daily tasks, and lays the groundwork for sustained success.