subject: Let Us Dispel The Myths Surrounding Electronic Medical Records [print this page] The advent of technology has helped in streamlining the health care industry in this decade. The introduction of electronic medical records has resulted in the maximization of Medicare incentives. The slow and steady transformation to this type o data storage has contributed significantly towards the efficiency of the health care system. The introduction of the enormous amount of data about these types of medical records has also resulted in various misconceptions among physicians and health care organizations.
In the section below, we have helped to clarify various myths about electronic medical records -
Myth All medical records need to be instantly be converted in to electronic medical records
Truth This is one of the common myths of physicians that they need to convert all their patient records in to the electronic forms all at one go. It is not advisable since it may have serious implications on the productivity of the physician or the organization. An easy way to overcome is by starting to add only the new patient to the electronic system. Then slowly and steadily all the patients charts can be added to the system.
Myth- There is no need to use an electronic medical record as the existing practice management system works fine
Truth - They are many practices and organizations that use the conventional practice management system. What needs to be understood about the practice management system is that they are prone to failures and the risk of data loss. The integrated model of the electronic records makes data freely available to all and also helps in tracking the various aspects of operations and accounting.
Myth- The only reason for converting the paper records in to electronic records is for financial benefits
Truth- This myth is partially true and yes the culmination of paper records in to electronic ones does have their own benefits. However, its not only for these reasons that these records are finding an increasing acceptance. The advanced technology it offers has a direct impact on the quality, safety and access.
Myth Physicians who convert to electronic health records will receive rewards in the form of stimulus dollars
Truth- This is a myth as in order to avail the benefit of stimulus dollars, it is important for a physician to use certified technology and derive meaningful use from the same. This involves the use of technology for coordination and better healthcare along with ensuring the privacy of the patients.
