Why Convert to an EHR System

Health-care organizations use electronic health-record (EHR) systems to keep track of their patients' medical information. According to a 2006 article in Physician's News Digest, EHR systems are becoming increasingly popular in the health-care field due to their performance and efficiency.

Function

EHR systems are capable of performing various functions including, but not limited to, storing patient data, communicating with pharmacies, scheduling patient appointments and managing finances or outstanding payments.

Organization

Medical offices that use EHR systems keep information organized. Rather than shuffling and filing papers and storing hard copies of medical charts, administrative personnel simply organize patient information electronically.

Efficiency

EHR systems enhance medical office efficiency. Information is easily accessible and can be brought up quickly. When doctor's write prescriptions, they can enter the information into the EHR system and send the information to the patient's pharmacy; eliminating the need for the patient to drop off the prescription.

Portability

The information stored in EHR systems can be accessed from any computer or smart phone device that is linked to the system. That means doctors can look up patient information from home in the case of an emergency, which improves the quality of patient care.

Considerations

Organizations that use EHR systems must adhere to confidentiality and security safeguard standards that are set by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. HIPAA requires electronic data to be password protected at all times.

References

• Physician's News Digest: Electronic Health Record License Agreement
• HIMSS: Electronic Health Record (EHR)
• Department of Health and Human Services: Health Information Privacy