Electronic medical records are digital equivalents of the charts or medical records at a doctor’s office. These records have information about the patient’s health history, medications, procedures and treatments. More clinics are opting to use electronic medical records because of the numerous benefits.
Benefits of Electronic Medical Records
Fewer Errors
Studies have shown that electronic medical records have fewer errors than paper records. It is easier for physicians to communicate with each other if they use electronic medical records. Physicians can quickly pull up the records. Not only does this reduce the chance of an error, but it also allows doctors and patients to save time.
Improved Patient Care
Electronic medical records allow patients and their families to be more involved in the care. Patients are not only able to view their medical records, but they are also able to get a summary of everything that was done during the visit. Additionally, electronic medical records provide useful information to the patient. They will be able to read articles and watch videos about health.
Secure
If a fire, storm or other disaster occurred, then a patient’s records can be gone forever. However, electronic medical records can be preserved regardless of what happens. As long as the files are backed up, doctors and patients will still be able to access the medical records.
Accessibility
Paper charts can only be accessed in one place at one time. However, electronic medical records can be viewed by multiple doctors at one time. This can be beneficial in the event of an emergency. For example, the patient may not be able to provide information about their health history in the event of an emergency. The physicians can easily get the information that they need in order to save the patient’s life.
No Paperwork Involved
Medical staff members often spend a lot of time filing and storing paperwork. This is not only time-consuming, but it is also costly. Electronic medical records make things easier for the office workers. They will be able to use less paperwork and spend less time filing. This will help offices save a lot of money.
It can also take a long time for physicians to look through the patients’ file. However, electronic medical records can be pulled up instantly. Physicians will be able to spend less time going through paperwork and more time with the patient. This is another way that electronic medical records help improve patient care.
Make Things Easier for Health Care Providers
Electronic medical records make things a lot easier for healthcare providers. It can be difficult for patients to get information about the patient if they are being cared for by multiple physicians. However, electronic medical records allow healthcare providers to view test results, medications and procedures whenever they need to.
They can also collaborate with other physicians if necessary. This leads to better diagnoses, which ultimately leads to better outcomes for the patient. Additionally, if the patient decides to see another health care provider, then their records can easily be transferred.