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Research
A Look At Electronic Health Records And Their Benefits
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Dec 5, 2016 - 3:03:08 PM

(HealthNewsDigest.com) - The push toward electronic health records began with the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act of 2009. An act that was signed into law as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. An overarching goal within the HITECH act was to create a network of electronic records and represents the largest U.S. initiative to date to do so. In 2014, it was reported that more than 80 percent of US hospitals had adopted the use of electronic health records (EHR). And the number of hospitals to integrate some form of EHRs has continued to rise.

In brief, EHRs refer to the collection and storage of patient health information in a digital format. These records can then be shared across different health care systems, networks, and exchanges. EHRs often include medical history, medication, allergies, immunizations, laboratory test results, and radiology images. As well as personal statistics like age and weight. Billing information is also often included.

However, digitizing health records alone does not make their access or use a more effective option over the paper alternative. Health networks must also use an integrated platform to manage the access and quick processing of such information. The right EHR implementation services are what allow the use of EHRs to benefit patients. The following are some of the advantages to electronic health records and electronic health record systems.

1. Means of coordinating care.

Electronic health records, and their systems, allow multiple medical professionals to access patient information. Sharing patient electronic health information creates many efficiencies in the delivery of health care. For example, by reducing the number of tests a patient must undergo. As test results from one medical facility can be made available to another provider in real time.

2. Speedy communication of critical information and quick access to patient records.

In the past, health providers stored health records on paper. They would then fax these records to coordinating health care professionals as requested. But this would result in an overall delay in information access. Now, with EHRs, such access to information is immediate and results in cost effectiveness for the patient. As well as the doctor having access to previously recorded medical information in real time.

3. Improvement in quality of care.

Medical quality of care has improved patient safety, efficiency, and effectiveness due to EHRs. According to a study published in 2011, EHRs has been linked to greater adherence to clinical guidelines and effective care. Often providers and clinicians have a limited time with patients in which to learn all factors involved in each case. Electronic health records enable providers to see get a bird's eye view of the condition of their patients.  Outpatient clinics are also more likely to follow recommended or protocol based care when EHRs are in use, studies have found. Computerized reminders as part of an integrated system have also been shown to increase appropriate treatments.

4. Elimination of medical and medication errors.

In one study, hospitals using a computerized order for medications were associated with a 55 percent cut in medication errors. Another study showed a 59 percent decrease in the need for pharmacist intervention to correct a drug error dose. Such errors may be due to misreading a physician’s handwriting. These types of errors are eliminated when sending prescriptions electronically.

5. Benefits to research and greater physician satisfaction with their practice.

While not a direct benefit to patients themselves, EHRs provide researchers with a wide data set. And the ability to hone in on evidence-based practices that lead to positive outcomes. Public health researchers are also using electronic clinical data to produce beneficial research. Studies have also shown an association between EHR use and physician satisfaction with their practice. An aspect that should not be neglected, as physician satisfaction has been associated with better quality of care. Not to mention better prescribing behaviors and increased retention in medical practices.

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