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Key Characteristics & Capabilities of EMR

EMR, or Electronic Medical Records, are becoming a standard among new family practices. Hospitals are converting to EMR as they balance the need for expedient record access and the need for patient privacy. The characteristics and capabilities of EMR make it seem simple to execute, but in practice it is difficult to make the switch.

  1. Time Saving

    • Saving time is a key factor in electronic medical records. When you write out orders and assessments, and send them to be transcribed and then filed, a hole may occur in the medical records. Pages can go missing for days during the process, causing an issue if the patient ends up back in the hospital. Doctors and nurses could miss very pertinent information. EMRs are instantaneous, logged records that give new caregivers access to the information immediately.

    Portability

    • Electronic Medical Records also allow the patient portability. Files can be sent instantly via email, instead of waiting for the office to authorize the release, and copy and mail old records. Security issues come into play when files are emailed. Unlike when a single medical record arrives in an office and is filed, the electronic copy exists in an inbox and can be printed at will. Hackers or anyone with access to the computer system can obtain the records. Programmers are developing safeguards for the electronic information.

    Cost Differential

    • Cost is a limiting characteristic of EMRs. The hospital or medical practice must make an initial investment so all safety features are included and there is adequate back-up of computerized files. The money will be returned quickly, as your office saves man hours and uses a smaller staff, though the initial required investment is substantial. The cost also reflects the time that office workers will spend training on the new system, making it initially more expensive.

    IT Department

    • EMR adds more expense by requiring an Information Technician, though all hospitals and doctor's offices already use an IT department to keep current correspondence in order. The computer systems must be more thoroughly policed. System producers often times offer a technical support package and off-site backup storage, but this is an added monthly expense.

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