Allscripts, a Chicago-based developer of healthcare IT, said that Columbia University Medical Center in New York City has selected the firm as its EHR provider for Columbia's outpatient physician group and planned community-based independent practice association.

The agreement, the largest in Allscripts history, will deploy the web-based EHR at the facility to automate clinical tasks such as prescribing medications and documenting patient visits, while electronically connecting physicians, residents and support staff.

Implementation of the system is scheduled to begin in 2008, according to Allscripts.