Electronic health records (EHR)

Definition

Electronic health records (EHR) are digital versions of patients' paper charts that provide a comprehensive and real-time view of patient information. EHRs are designed to streamline the clinician's workflow and improve the quality of patient care by allowing for easy access, sharing, and storage of health data. They enhance communication among healthcare providers, support clinical decision-making, and facilitate improved patient outcomes by making patient history readily available across different healthcare settings.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. EHRs enhance coordination of care by providing a centralized location for all patient information that can be accessed by authorized healthcare professionals.
2. They can include a wide range of data such as medical history, medications, lab results, and treatment plans, facilitating better clinical decisions.
3. EHRs help in reducing errors related to handwriting or transcription by providing standardized formats for entering and accessing patient data.
4. They improve efficiency in healthcare settings by streamlining administrative processes like scheduling, billing, and reporting.
5. EHRs are essential for meeting regulatory requirements and supporting initiatives like meaningful use, which incentivizes the adoption of EHR technology.

Review Questions

• How do electronic health records (EHR) improve communication among healthcare providers?
  • Electronic health records (EHR) improve communication among healthcare providers by creating a shared platform where patient information can be accessed and updated in real time. This accessibility ensures that all authorized providers have the most current and accurate information about a patient's health status, treatments, and history. Enhanced communication reduces the chances of miscommunication or errors in treatment, ultimately leading to better coordinated care.
• Discuss the significance of interoperability in the effective use of electronic health records (EHR) across different healthcare systems.
  • Interoperability is crucial for the effective use of electronic health records (EHR) as it allows different EHR systems to communicate with each other. This means that a patient's health information can be seamlessly transferred between various healthcare providers, regardless of the systems they use. Effective interoperability leads to improved patient care by ensuring that clinicians have access to comprehensive patient data at all times, which enhances clinical decision-making and reduces duplication of tests.
• Evaluate the impact of electronic health records (EHR) on patient engagement and empowerment within the healthcare system.
  • The impact of electronic health records (EHR) on patient engagement and empowerment is significant, as these systems often include features like patient portals that give individuals access to their health information. By allowing patients to view lab results, schedule appointments, and communicate with their providers online, EHRs encourage active participation in their own healthcare. This increased engagement not only fosters better relationships between patients and providers but also contributes to improved health outcomes as patients become more informed and involved in managing their conditions.

Related terms

Health Information Exchange (HIE): Health Information Exchange (HIE) is the electronic sharing of health-related information among organizations according to nationally recognized standards.

Interoperability:

Interoperability refers to the ability of different EHR systems to communicate and exchange data seamlessly, ensuring that patient information can be shared across various healthcare settings.

Patient Portal: A patient portal is a secure online application that allows patients to access their health information, communicate with their healthcare providers, and manage appointments through an EHR system.