Friday, September 14, 2012

The Benefits Of Utilizing Electronic Health Record Programs For Handling Patient Files

By Jennifer P. Myeers


Most health care organizations and offices have shifted to an electronic health record system because of its many benefits over the traditional filing system. Once the transition from the traditional filing system to the electronic one has taken place, health care professionals are finding that this system is much simpler to use. This electronic format enables health care professionals to easily access files quickly, store them in a more secure place, and quickly find any errors within the records.

Electronic health record software is much easier to access since people no longer have to travel down to a file room and sort through hundreds or thousands of different records. Using a secure terminal or computer anywhere in the office or the network, doctors and other health care professionals can quickly access the files that they need. Rather than having to spend time looking for files, they can promptly access and make changes to the files that they want. This frees up the doctor to spend more time with the individual or to see additional patients.

If files can be found as hard copies then it is possible for people to access them even when they don't have the proper authorization to do so. Rather than just looking at files that pertain to them, individuals will have access to all of the files that are stored in one place. Various levels of security are designated to different health care workers, and there are times when workers will not be given access to all of the files or all of a patient's file. By using software, various workers will only have access to the files that they have been cleared to view or they will have to enter a security code in order to access the files. The files are also kept electronically which means that they can't be misplaced or filed improperly.

Errors can be recognized and fixed in the medical records almost immediately which is another benefit of electronic health record software over the traditional system. There have been times when a medicine has been prescribed to a patient in error because a doctor accidentally overlooked something in the patient's file. Electronic prescribing software decreases the incidents of these errors because the system will automatically alert the doctor if there are any negative interactions between drugs. In case something is overlooked, these applications serve as a back-up to double check any medications.

The advantages of an electronic health record system include giving health care professionals easier and more secure access to patient files. It also provides a back-up or check system for medical and prescription information. Because of its simplicity, many doctor offices and health care practices are transitioning to this type of software.




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