BACKGROUND:
Since 1998 Partners in Health Systems has managed and maintained regional registries across Upstate New York. As registries evolve it is critical that new registry information and application updates reach the participating providers in a manner that is understandable, interesting and illustrates the importance of new features and updates. This allows the sites to become fully operational in registry usage.

OBJECTIVE:
Develop methods that educate provider sites in a hands on, interactive method that relays new developments in registries and applications to ensure that the features can be utilized in the day to day routine within the office.

METHOD:
Various levels of technical abilities and registry knowledge require different methods of education. Sensitivity to the clinical orientation of participating sites makes it necessary to develop different approaches to make registry updates more easily understood and used. Insight was gained by working in collaboration with lead agencies to determine the most dynamic manner in which to educate and work collaboratively with provider offices. Some techniques we use are storytelling to illustrate a situation or point, promotional campaigns to encourage the use of new features, and surveys to ensure that we are focusing on areas of need.

RESULT:
New methods were implemented at registry user meetings, in recruitment presentations, during installation and training, and through promotional mailings. Our approach allows the provider sites hands on experience in a relaxed and constructive environment that encourages learning, makes the material interesting, and results in increased utilization of beneficial registry features. Areas of need and interest are identified through surveys and then incorporated into the next meeting.

CONCLUSION:
A multifaceted approach to working with participating sites is critical to achieving operational use of a registry application.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
To share tools that can be used to help increase understanding and utilization of registry features.