The widespread implementation of electronic health records (EHRs) has revolutionized the way healthcare is delivered. No longer are patient medical records kept in paper files that are subject to loss or damage. Now, patient data is stored electronically and can be accessed by authorized healthcare providers from anywhere in the world. But how do electronic health records improve patient care? In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the ways EHRs have transformed healthcare for the better.
1. Access to Patient Data
One of the biggest advantages of electronic health records is that authorized healthcare providers can access patient data from anywhere in the world. This is especially beneficial for patients who require care from specialists or who need to be seen by a provider in another state or country. With EHRs, authorized providers can easily view a patient’s medical history, medications, allergies, and test results. A patient tracking system not only helps to improve the quality of care a patient receives but also helps to avoid dangerous medication errors like prescribing the wrong medication or dosages.
2. Improved Coordination of Care
Care coordination is essential for providing high-quality, safe patient care. EHRs improve coordination of care by giving authorized providers real-time access to a patient’s medical data. This information can help providers make more informed decisions about a patient’s care and avoid duplication of services. By understanding the benefits of an EHR built for innovation, you can avoid various types of errors and inefficiencies that may occur when different providers are using different systems. It could be anything from a misspelled name to a wrong patient being scheduled for surgery. When different members of a care team can access and share the same patient information, it helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goal.
3. Reduced Costs
EHRs can help to reduce the overall cost of healthcare by eliminating the need for paper records and reducing the number of duplicate tests and procedures that are ordered. In addition, EHRs can help to improve the efficiency of care delivery and reduce the length of hospital stays. One study found that the use of EHRs have lower cost per patient and fewer missed appointments compared to paper-based records. Overall, the switch to electronic health records has the potential to save the healthcare system billions of dollars each year and improve the quality of care for patients.
To Conclude
We hope this article has helped to show you some of the ways that electronic health records improve patient care. Now that you understand the benefits of EHRs, it’s time to start using one! So, if you’re a provider, we encourage you to get started with electronic health records today. Your patients will thank you for it!
