Pros & Cons of Electronic Medical Records

Today, paper is being used less and less. Now, medical records are often stored on computers or online. These records can be accessed by those with clearance and are on a common network.

Safety Against Loss

• Paper records and files can easily be lost or destroyed, such as in a fire or flood. An electronic database safely keeps your medical records.

Less Errors

• According to HealthWorldNet.com, "handwritten records are subject to lots of human errors due to misspelling, illegibility and differing terminologies." Electronic medical records eliminate handwriting and offer spellcheck and other tools of standardization.

Efficiency

• Electronic medical records are cost efficient, because they eliminate many expenses associated with printing, paper and other office supplies.

Not Secure

• Many patients do not feel that their records are secure. With many computer hackers in the world, it is possible that your records could be compromised.

Loss of Computer

• Although your medical records will be backed up, technical glitches or loss of power could occur during a doctor's appointment. This can prevent the doctor from seeing your record.