Electronic Medical Records - Emr Pros And Cons

Electronic Medical Records - Emr Pros And Cons

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EMR or Electronic Medical Records are patient records which have historically been kept in paper files in every physician's office and hospital in the US and other countries. The idea that these records could easily be destroyed by fire, earthquakes or other natural or manmade disasters has initiated the idea from the government and other medical officials that it would be much more efficient, safe and cost effective in the long run to have these records digitized. We have already started but by no means completed this process.

The advantages appear to be plentiful. When the files are all in electronic form, any doctor from anywhere in the US (and eventually the world) could with a few clicks on a computer could pull up all of a patient's medical information including health data, tests, X-rays, and any chronic conditions including medications which are taken by the patient. This, alone, could save much hassle and mistakes that could occur from having to request paper records from other offices. It would eliminate lost tests and save time.

Everyone is aware of seeing a prescription with a physician's hen scratch on it and wondered how the pharmacist could read it. EMR will eliminate the potential errors in medications which could actually save lives. This alone is an enormous step in the right direction.

Another benefit of EMR is the reduction in cost for the hospital or doctor's office in storage space for paper files. These files must be stored someplace, according to law, for seven years. With electronic files, the cost of storage will be eliminated. Costs would also be reduced in copying, faxing and mailing records from one place to another. There would be less breaches of confidentiality and the there would be less chance for records to be stolen.

Although the advantages are many and exciting, the disadvantages must be recognized as well. Creating a national database that can be accessed by all healthcare professionals is a mammoth task. It requires large amounts of financial investments by the government but also from private health care providers. Although passion for the project and attention from hospitals' leadership is a successful driver; people who are enthusiastic about the project are a necessary force to drive this project forward.

Training is also needed at the input level. Trained staff will need to be provided to input data correctly; people who know medical transcription and billing will also be needed. There will be much competition for knowledgeable IT talent and extended time for completion.

It has been said that it could take a 500 bed hospital 2-5 years to complete the project of getting all records digitized. Many software solutions are out there vying for healthcare institutions to purchase them. And then, of course, comes the job of integrating healthcare information in one place in order to be accessed from all the others.

EMR is on the cutting edge of a brand new and exciting idea. The benefits, at least for now, appear to overcome the disadvantages. Once the project is completed and all medical records are digitized, patients can be assured of reduced errors and more comprehensive health care overall.

About the Author:
(http://www.primeclinical.com/)EMR or Electronic Medical Records are patient records which have historically been kept in paper files in every physician's office and hospital in the US and other countries.



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