What Types of Medical Records Can Be Transferred Electronically?

Advancements in technology created a way for a patient's medical records to be transferred electronically. Electronic medical records allow multiple health care providers to view and use a single file simultaneously. EMR are transferred via email, disk or memory stick. This is beneficial to patients, because it gives physicians the opportunity to consult cases and treat patients from around the globe.

Medical History

• Medical history is an example of one type of medical record that is transferable electronically. It includes information pertaining to a patient's condition and previous diagnoses. All information regarding the health of a patient is found within this type of record. Transferring a medical history electronically reduces delay in treatment because records are received quickly. The electronic transfer of this type of medical record requires permission from the patient.

Medication and Allergy List

• A medication and allergy file is another example of a medical record that is transferred electronically. Allergy lists include the names, severity and type of allergic reaction for each medication a patient is allergic to. Drug interactions may occur when certain medications are combined or taken with others. Positive and negative effects are both possible results of drug interactions. Sending a patient's medication and allergy list electronically keeps physicians and a pharmacist current that helps reduce the risk of negative drug interactions.

Test Results

• Medical test results are included among the medical records sent electronically. They inform physicians and other health care providers of the findings from diagnostic tests. Examples of diagnostic test results that are sent electronically include blood work, MRI scan and X-ray results. Physicians use the information collected through diagnostic testing to form diagnoses and treatment plans.

Treatment Orders

• Treatment order files are medical records sent electronically to health care providers. They give nurses and other health care providers permission to perform specific treatments and care. Health care providers including physicians and therapists write them. They contain detailed instructions for the type, frequency and duration of care. The orders are sent to the nurses who perform said treatment or educate patients how to do so themselves.