Electronic Health Record "EHR"
Q. What is “EHR”?
A. EHR stands for electronic health record. In simple terms, an EHR replaces paper charts with a digital format which can be accessed on our computers.
Q. How does a computer system help to provide better health care?
A. Here are some examples of how an EHR helps provide better care:
- The system automatically alerts physicians of possible conflicts (such as drug interactions or allergic reactions).
- Electronic - rather than handwritten - records reduce the possibility of errors due to illegible writing. This is especially true for prescriptions. E-prescribing is also convenient for patients, since they no longer have to take a paper prescription to their pharmacist.
- EHRs provide reminders about relevant health screenings and preventive services that are specific to that individual.
- A printed summary of the patient’s health information will be available after each office visit. This information explains the patient’s treatment plan and options for care, which improves communication between doctor and patient.
- Overall, the EHR makes the office more efficient. That means less errors and less time wasted for the patients, the staff and the physician.
Q. I need to have a prescription refilled. Do I still call the office?
A. With the new system, you'll be able to get your medications faster and more conveniently by contacting your pharmacy directly. Your pharmacy will work with our office to refill your medication. Our prescription refill request line is no longer available.
Q. Are health records safe on the new system?
A. Yes, the new system has several levels of security to protect our patients’ private health information. Not only are there measures to protect the data from external security threats, there are also safe¬guards to ensure staff only have access to information that is appropriate to their roles within the office. Over 20 computer servers make up our network. This allows for backup resources if there would be problems with part of the system.
Q. What’s the difference between EHR and EMR (electronic medical records)?
A. Today, the terms EHR and EMR are basically interchangeable. EMR typically refers to the earlier versions of these systems, which didn’t offer as many functions and applications.
Q. Why may my first visit take longer?
A. Although everyone in the office has been trained on the EHR, practice makes perfect! We have budgeted extra time to work with patients and get information into the electronic record. Everyone’s patience is appreciated as we make this transition.
