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eClinicalWorks Network Specifications and Check List

The following specifications are required before installation and go live.

Proper hardware and network configuration is crucial to the success of your eClinicalWorks system. The network (including the server, workstations, tablets, laptops, modems, analog phone lines, printers and scanners) must be fully installed before eClinicalWorks is installed.

The Hardware Requirements document states the minimum requirements needed for the network. The client should review this document with their IT specialist to ensure proper ordering or upgrading of equipment. Please consult with Network specialists prior to configuring all network settings.

Hardware

High Speed Internet

  • Internet service must have a fixed public IP address.
  • High-Speed internet is available at all locations. For example: DSL, Cable Mode, T1, or T3 (eClinicalWorks™ will not be able to install via dial-up).
  • Upload/Download speeds need to be sufficient for eClinicalWorks to remotely work on the network and download large files. Refer to table below for recommended network speeds:
Nos. of Concurrent Users
(sharing this connection)		 Recommended
Upload Speed		 Recommended
Download Speed
1 – 10 Concurrent Users 512Kb/s 512Kb/s
11 – 20 Concurrent Users 768Kb/s 768Kb/s
21 – 30 Concurrent Users 1024Kb/s 1024Kb/s

Server

  • Server runs Windows 2003 (see hardware specs).
  • Server uses Standard Edition only, not MS Small business server.

Workstation Computers and Portable Computers

  • Microsoft Word is installed on all computers of users that will use eClinicalWorks' letter and billing capabilities. Word is activated using Key Codes.
  • Microsoft Excel is installed on the biller’s computer (for CMS 1500 form alignment). Excel is activated using Key Codes.
  • PCs can be setup up on a Domain or Work group, which ever your network specialist recommends.

Firewall/Router

  • Firewalls are configured for maximum security and only allow predetermined access from known sites.

Scanners

  • Scanner with TWAIN drivers are acceptable and usually installed on individual PCs but can run off the network also.

Fax Line, Fax PC, and Modem

  • Analog fax line(s) is used for digital faxing into eClinicalWorks.
  • Fax line(s) is direct to phone company. Fax line does not run through digital switches (such as a hospital's switch).
  • Faxing can use either external modems (i.e., US Robotics 5686E with serial cable) or internal cards/boards (multi-line faxing the Digi Acceleport RAS modem card).

Network

  • All PCs are joined to the domain (or workgroup).
  • Wireless access point is compliant with hardware specifications.
  • Wireless survey complete and successful.

Remote Connection Options

Some practices have multiple locations or would like to access eClinicalWorks™ from home. A VPN connection is required if the practice has multiple locations but there are other options if wanting to access from home. This is usually determined by your network specialist. The following are some options to consider:

  • VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a transmission method use to connect users from location to location across the Internet in a secure manner.
  • Remote Desktop Connection.
  • VNC
  • Other remote connection options.

Backup

It is always important to protect your patient data from unknown events. Regular backups of your data are a necessary part of EMR maintenance. Several of our recommended option are listed below:

Network administrator in server room