St. Louis-based SSM Health, a nonprofit Catholic health system operating across four states with 24 hospitals and 300 ambulatory facilities, is embarking on a new initiative called "Project One."
The project aims to rebuild the organization's foundational systems and workflows, focusing on upgrading its Epic EHR system.
SSM Health has been an Epic customer since 2005, but as the organization has grown, its use of the EHR system has faced challenges.
"At one point, we had multiple instances of Epic and other EHRs. Over the years, we unified them, but disparities remained in how the system was built and workflows were implemented," Saad Chaudhry, chief digital and information officer at SSM Health, told Becker's.
Historically, SSM Health operated as a holding company, with each region managing its own systems and technologies. This resulted in a fragmented approach, with variations in processes and workflows across regions. In recent years, however, the health system transitioned to a unified operating model, which now underpins its efforts to consolidate and standardize its digital infrastructure.
"For the longevity and future of the organization, it's important that we take the necessary steps to renovate from the foundation level all the way up," Mr. Chaudhry said.
About Project One
Described as a hybrid between an Epic "refuel" and a fresh installation, Project One aims to reimagine the health system's infrastructure to achieve clinical and operational excellence. Beyond upgrading Epic, the initiative will address facility structures, service line organization, and standardize workflows across its four-state footprint.
"We're not just setting things to Epic's foundations—out-of-the-box workflows—but also defining SSM standards for how we do things," Mr. Chaudhry said.
Mr. Chaudhry likened the effort to rowing a boat with 100 holes.
"Without addressing foundational issues, most of your energy is spent plugging holes rather than moving forward," he said.
Through Project One, SSM Health aims to build a system that supports seamless clinical and operational workflows while positioning the organization for future innovation.
"We are investing in our backbone systems to ensure we have the freedom and excellence to provide the highest level of care," Mr. Chaudhry said.
Balancing innovation with infrastructure
While Project One focuses on foundational improvements, SSM Health is also prioritizing innovation.
"It's not a game of 'or'; it's a game of 'and.' We can't just spend three years rebuilding EHRs and ignore advancements like AI and digital tools," Mr. Chaudhry said.
The health system has embraced several forward-looking initiatives, including joint ventures for linen facilities, pharmacy benefits, and generic drug manufacturing, as well as its own health plan and accountable care organization. These efforts, according to Mr. Chaudhry, reflect SSM Health's mission-driven approach to growth, emphasizing community needs over hospital expansion.