Recent statistics show that more than 80 percent of office-based medical practitioners in the United States are using some form of Electronic Health Record (EHR) system. This high-rate is not surprising given the many advantages of adopting a digital record-keeping technology that allows ready access to patient’s medical files while ensuring the utmost security from unauthorized individuals.
What is unusual with this stat is the more or less 20 percent of doctors who have yet to utilize electronic health records software in their practice. While many physicians and hospitals vowing the benefits of this technology, there are still misconceptions about EHR that may be deterring other medical practitioners from using it.
If you are one of the doctors who are still unconvinced of the real value of EHR because of the things you heard, here are the truths behind common misconceptions to set the record straight:
The Use of Technology Make Doctor-Patient Relationship Impersonal
Many practitioners who have yet to use the EHR technology claim how using computers to key-in information during appointments could mean less time interacting with patients. Doctors who use the EHR system, however, know that this is not true. Users of the electronic health records software assert that they have more time conversing with their patients now than before.
Relying on a paper-based system means you need to scribble down notes hurriedly while your patient is talking, or you must go through numerous documents to find a lab report or other pertinent record. Instead of taking away the time meant for your patient, using an electronic health records system allows you to spend quality time with them as you are no longer busy dealing with paperwork.
All EHR Systems are Similar
Given that there are numerous providers of EHR systems, it follows that not all programs are the same. Just because a specific EHR system worked for one doctor does not mean it will benefit you the same way. Rather than subscribing to one particular program because it is accessible, you should select the system that works for you.
Before you find a software provider, you should first identify your goals. Then, ask yourself what features you need to achieve these objectives. You should also find out more about your current system, so you can find software that will work well with what you already have. Finding out your needs and your current operations are vital considerations when choosing an EHR system that benefits your practice.
Using EHR Creates Security Issues
The use of EHR technology is more secure than a paper-based record system. Note that information recorded on paper can be tampered or changed anytime without being detected. They can also be misplaced or destroyed unintentionally or intentionally.
With the EHR system, your patients’ records cannot be accessed and altered without being noticed. For one, only authorized users can view the information on the program. Secondly, all electronic files are encrypted for better security. More importantly, you are immediately alerted when unauthorized access occurs, which is something lacking in a manual record system.
The use of electronic health records software can benefit your private practice in many ways. This technology allows you to manage your patients’ records more efficiently, so you can spend more time providing the best level of care to your patients.
The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.
