Electronic medical record software (EMR software) is a set of programs that manage patient records. They are used in the storage, retrieval and modification of patient data. The programs have been introduced to solve the problems associated with paper based systems. There are many different types being used to address the wide variety of clinical specialties such as cardiology, ophthalmology, paediatrics, neurology, family medicine and psychiatry among others.
There are various strengths and weaknesses associated with this system. The greatest advantage is the increased efficiency in both storage and retrieval of patient information. Digitally stored information is far easier to access than that found on paper. With the law requiring that patient data should be stored for at least 5 years in many countries, there are very large volumes involved. EMR programs have a search option that brings up what is required within seconds.
By storing data digitally a lot of space is saved. The result of this is huge savings in costs related to physical space. With the law requiring that patient records should be kept for at least 5 years in many countries, many healthcare centres have to invest heavily. Digital data can be stored for much longer due to the format used.
Healthcare providers using the programs will find it easier to replicate patient reports in the event that copies of the same are required in more than one location at a given time. There is no need for photocopying and faxing which only serve to increase costs of treatment. The copies can be created in a computer and sent by email to the intended recipients.
A number of standards have been developed to be used by the different operating systems that run EMR programs. HL-7 is a format of messages interchanged between different EMR systems. ANSIX12 (EDI) helps with the transmission of claims and bills from patients that have been treated. DICOM is another standard used to represent radiological images such as MRI, ultrasound, CT scans and X-rays. Other standards are the CEN-HISA and CEN-EHRcom.
There are several disadvantages associated with use of the programs. The fact that many people including doctors, nurses and clerks may access this information may be a cause of concern for some patients. The use of the software has reduced patient doctor interaction and some healthcare providers think that this will reduce the quality of care. Other disadvantages include the fact there is need for training which is time consuming and costly, and the equipment itself is also expensive.
There have been several improvements over times as regards the use of electronic medical record software systems. A number of centres have incorporated them in their clinical procedures and this has contributed significantly to improved patient care. Due to linkage with the internet, research work has been greatly boosted. The researchers are given authorisation to access this data and can do so anywhere.
There are various strengths and weaknesses associated with this system. The greatest advantage is the increased efficiency in both storage and retrieval of patient information. Digitally stored information is far easier to access than that found on paper. With the law requiring that patient data should be stored for at least 5 years in many countries, there are very large volumes involved. EMR programs have a search option that brings up what is required within seconds.
By storing data digitally a lot of space is saved. The result of this is huge savings in costs related to physical space. With the law requiring that patient records should be kept for at least 5 years in many countries, many healthcare centres have to invest heavily. Digital data can be stored for much longer due to the format used.
Healthcare providers using the programs will find it easier to replicate patient reports in the event that copies of the same are required in more than one location at a given time. There is no need for photocopying and faxing which only serve to increase costs of treatment. The copies can be created in a computer and sent by email to the intended recipients.
A number of standards have been developed to be used by the different operating systems that run EMR programs. HL-7 is a format of messages interchanged between different EMR systems. ANSIX12 (EDI) helps with the transmission of claims and bills from patients that have been treated. DICOM is another standard used to represent radiological images such as MRI, ultrasound, CT scans and X-rays. Other standards are the CEN-HISA and CEN-EHRcom.
There are several disadvantages associated with use of the programs. The fact that many people including doctors, nurses and clerks may access this information may be a cause of concern for some patients. The use of the software has reduced patient doctor interaction and some healthcare providers think that this will reduce the quality of care. Other disadvantages include the fact there is need for training which is time consuming and costly, and the equipment itself is also expensive.
There have been several improvements over times as regards the use of electronic medical record software systems. A number of centres have incorporated them in their clinical procedures and this has contributed significantly to improved patient care. Due to linkage with the internet, research work has been greatly boosted. The researchers are given authorisation to access this data and can do so anywhere.
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