How does the typical patient benefit from doctors who use Electronic Medical Records (EMR)?

Compared to paper records, utilizing an EMR system is a rapid and efficient method to preserve critical medical information. Studies have repeatedly proven that paper records are costly, cumbersome, easily misplaced and cannot be used for any meaningful decision analysis. This information "mining" analysis is needed by clinicians and administrators alike to improve and fine-tune clinical practices.

EMRs can be effectively searched and used to track, analyze and/or chart voluminous clinical medical information and processes.

A centralized, easily accessible, and secure patient information network is a key to making patient information available to both the patient and the physician. Benefits that have been realized are:

• Patients can be provided with their chart in an electronic format ensuring their medical history is complete, legible and accurate.
• Complete information can be shared easily with specialists.
• Direct data entry by clinicians and staff greatly reduces the time in which charts are updated and archived making the information available should it be needed.
• Create higher quality documentation (auditable, legible and organized charts and records).
• Document visits to a consistent level of quality/service.
• Improve the accuracy of coding at the appropriate level.
• EMR systems greatly aid clinicians in immediate patient treatment and in capturing key information.
• New regulatory mandates (e.g. HIPAA) require better, more complete, secure and auditable medical records.
• Research and Decision Support are key uses for patient-related data.