electronic health

What's in Electronic Health Records?

2011-12-21T18:43:00.000-08:00

Electronic health records have been explained as a way to make patient care more efficient and effective. Physicians, hospitals, and healthcare facilities will be expected to exchange patient information easily and patients will benefit by having more improved, efficient care. Additionally, the U.S. government has boasted the cost savings electronic health records software can offer to the healthcare industry as a whole. Yet as physicians across the nation are encouraged to adopt electronic health records, many still don't understand the general make up of a basic software solution. Essentially, electronic health records software compiles all the information that is handled on paper in a physician's office, and transfers the information into a organized electronic format. Additionally, all of the tasks and processes that typically occur in a physician's office are replicated within electronic health records. Doctors' and nurses' notes made during a patient's stay can be entered into electronic health records to ensure a continuity of care. Also, these notes can be referred to in the future if a patient has to make a return visit to the hospital. Inherent in any visit or stay to a physician's office or hospital are a number of documents that the patient must sign. Lab test results and data from various healthcare instruments are also an important part of delivering quality patient care. These documents can be included in some of the best electronic health records software to form databases, which can then be converted into charts and graphs to help physicians with clinical decisions. These same documents and results can be digitized and made a part of a library of the patient's file for future reference, which would reduce the costs of redundant labs and procedures. Additionally, all of the tasks and processes that typically occur in a physician's office are replicated within electronic health records. Doctors' and nurses' notes made during a patient's stay can be entered into electronic health records to ensure a continuity of care.Additionally, lists of medications given to a patient, as well as reactions to those medications, can be kept in electronic health records and used to ensure the proper medications are dispensed. The more physicians understand how electronic health records can improve their daily lives; as well improve the lives of their patients, the faster everyone can benefits from the advances in the healthcare industry.

Case Study Electronic Health Records in cleveland ohio

2011-12-21T18:42:00.002-08:00

Recently launched PatientClick Electronic Health Records, a leading provider of web-based Electronic Health Record solutions for medical practitioners transitioning from paper to electronic medical records – has been Dragon Certified. With the pressure on for medical providers to make the switch cost-effectively and with as little disruption as possible, PatientClick Electronic Health Records uniquely bridges the gap in providing a service that stands-out from the pack by allowing physicians to leverage voice recognition technology to effectively use EHR in their daily routine.

The Dragon Medical EHR Certification Program is a rigorous and stringent process that is designed to seamlessly synchronize medical workflow in EHR.

The software has been specifically designed to be intuitive to use, says Vish Mehta, CEO of Patient Click. "We designed PatientClick Electronic Health Record with both the physician and the staff in mind, with a specific emphasis on its easy-to-use technology," he says.

Key benefits include multiple methods for physicians or clinical staff members to create medical encounter notes through interface with Dragon Medical and Nuance Dragon Medical while meeting their strict interface and compliance requirements.

Patient Click Electronic Health Records was launched for physicians worldwide in early June, and offers a defined suite of services for physicians. The software interface features customizable dashboards, integrated patient portals and multi-provider communication tools.

Concerning ease-of-use, Mehta insists that PatientClick Electronic Health Records greatly simplifies and streamlines the efficiency of any medical office. "Medical practices that subscribe to PatientClick Electronic Health Records will be able to view and access every aspect of a patient's chart on one screen," Mehta explains. "This includes medical record histories, lab test results, prescriptions, films, insurance, appointments, letters and alerts – saving hours of valuable time."

About PatientClick Electronic Health Record
PatientClick Electronic Health Record, based in Cleveland, Ohio, with offices in San Diego, Calif., offers innovative online electronic medical record service solutions designed and built specifically with physicians and small medical clinics. The service provides 24/7 year-round support, with no costly hardware to install and with a minimal amount of time required to get up and running. PatientClick Electronic Health Record's services are scalable, so they can fit a physician's practice large or small. The specialty-specific EMR software service covers more than 30 medical specialties, and can be customized to fit individual needs and workflow of any physician offices. For more information, visit PatientClick Electronic Health Records on the web at http://www.patientclick.com

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New Electronic Health Records Laws Go Into Effect in 2012

2011-12-21T18:42:00.001-08:00

Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced in September that new regulations would go into effect October 2012 allowing patients to have access to their electronic health records.

"We want patients to take control of their own health and to make the choices easy," U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin told USA TODAY.

Why new electronic health record laws?

According to Health and Human Services, about 20 percent of abnormal test results don't ever make it to the patient. With electronic health records, patients will not only be able to quickly see test results but can also read doctor's recommendations and details of prior surgeries, treatments and billing records. The new regulations aren't just helpful to the patients, though. Doctors will be able to send prescriptions directly to a pharmacist instead of using a written prescription and specialists can see tests and medications other doctors have ordered for their patients.

Health and Human Services explains that these new electronic health record laws will also mean fewer duplicate tests and doctors will be less likely to make prescriptions that could have adverse effects when combined with the patient's other medications. Patients will have a hand in their electronic health records, as well, with the ability to enter in their own weight and diet and keep track of symptoms for chronic illnesses, which could help doctors treat them more quickly should they notice a new symptom in their records.

e-MDs encourages patients to check out their electronic health records .

While these new electronic health record laws are new, using software to maintain patient files electronically is not. For years e-MDs has offered a host of affordable, certified electronic health record solutions for physicians and medical facilities. e-MDs also offers a comprehensive patient portal for its customers' patients to improve the important doctor-patient relationship. Here, patients can view and update health summaries, schedule appointments and request refills and referrals via any Internet connection. Clinics have the ability to share lab results and send appointment and health maintenance reminders directly with their patients.

While the new electronic health record laws will benefit all patients in the U.S. next year, electronic health record services, such as e-MDs, help both doctors and their patients alike by providing an easier, more streamlined process for maintaining patient files and making it simpler for patients to stay on top of their own records. For more information about e-MDs award-winning solutions

United States Government Invests in Nation's Electronic Health Records

2011-12-21T18:41:00.002-08:00

In an effort to digitize the health care industry, the government recently revealed $1.2 billion in federal grants for health care providers to transition to electronic health records systems, according to The Washington Post. This is the first wave of funding under a health care reform plan that is aimed at cutting costs and improving overall care in the future. This new reform plan has encouraged health care providers, physicians, and technology companies who will provide support for such a transition.

The new push for implementing electronic health records systems is a crucial step in overhauling the nation's increasingly expensive health care system. An additional $36 billion in landmark stimulus legislation will be allocated to generate adoption of the equipment by doctors and hospitals as well as the networks that will link them together. Half of the grant will help establish 70 technology-extension centers that will assist the hospitals and other health care providers in implementing the electronic health records systems. Doctors, hospitals and other health care providers will also receive reimbursements for the equipment they purchase before 2015. According to the Obama Administration, the universal adoption of electronic health technology could save more than $77 billion a year.

The goal of universally digitizing doctors' offices will hinge on how well small-office physician practices transition to digital records. Accordingly to NYTimes.com, three-fourths of the nation's physicians practice medicine in offices with 10 or fewer doctors. The challenge is lessened by technology companies' push to bring electronic health records into small practices. These small practices can benefit financially because of reduced paperwork and automated billing provided by electronic health records. They can also receive up to $44,000 per doctor in reimbursements for demonstrating "meaningful use" of a "certified" electronic health records system. The incentive payments are intended to reimburse doctors for much of the initial investment in electronic health records.

Simplifying and improving the health care system is one of the most critical and dynamic situations the nation faces in the immediate future. Too many facilities have been resistant to change and their patients are suffering the consequences. It is time to update your facility's medical records system to meet the needs of society and its technologies.

The e-MDs electronic medical records system is 2006, 2007 and 2008 CCHIT Certified and designed by physicians aiming to improve care, reduce errors and simplify business so that time spent with patients is time billed and coded properly. Its features work with staff to make the transition to an electronic medical records system as smooth as possible. With e-MDs, medical practices can visit, code and bill with a single application. If your facility is looking to implement an electronic medical records system, look no further than e-MDs for a robust, cost-effective EHR system.

For more information about a reliable electronic health record system, contact e-MDs, a leader in electronic medical record software provision. e-MDs offers a host of affordable solutions for physicians and facilities looking to modernize or enhance their services with the latest EHR/EMR technology. e-MDs is committed to providing affordable and integrated EHR and Practice Management Software solutions, including clinical, financial and document management modules designed to automate medical practice processes and chart management – delivering the clinical tools needed to succeed in today's healthcare environment.

Electronic Health Records Lighten the Burdens of Paperwork

2011-12-21T18:41:00.001-08:00

Using electronic health records or EHR is becoming more popular in many hospitals and clinics all over the country, but many discussions are being exchanged regarding its efficiency. However, many medical experts believe that electronic health records can give a lot of benefits to both doctors and patients.

EHR is an innovation of technology that intends to lighten the burden of keeping, maintaining, and updating patients' records. It systematically collects information from first time patients and stores it in the database for future reference. Typically, electronic health records can be shared through an integrated network.

Electronic health records are often used interchangeably with electronic medical record (EMR) and electronic personal record (EPR). Although these records may have the same purpose at one point, they do have their differences. Electronic medical record includes a single treatment or diagnosis only. Electronic health record, on the other hand, compiles all medical diagnosis and treatments of one person which can be retrieved from the person's different EMRs. Electronic personal*records are simply records that are manipulated by the patients themselves.

In many hospitals all over the country, nurses and health assistants use tablet PCs to make information gathering easier and more accessible. Some medical establishments are quite confused in selecting the right system for their clinics and hospitals. Electronic health records are recommended for medical establishments that treat different ailments. On the other hand, electronic medical records are recommended for clinics that are open only to cases falling under certain specializations like orthopedics.

Through the help of the emerging software vendor industry, more and more medical establishments are implementing these electronic systems to aid their health practitioners on proper work distributions and workloads. Implementing electronic health records or electronic medical records can sometimes depend on the establishment's IT budgets and demand, but the investment will surely pay off.

Above all, electronic health records allow easy information sharing between health practitioners and medical experts, which make treatments easy and convenient. It also enables efficiency among workflows and clinical processes. Electronic health records help save medical establishments from keeping tons of paper work which has been the tradition in past medical practices. Through electronic systems, it would be easy for health practitioners to retrieve medical histories and implement better medical solutions for their patients.

Electronic Health Records - Don't Get Sick Without One

2011-12-21T18:39:00.000-08:00

Electronic health records (EHRs) started as way for doctors to organize their records, make ordering more convenient, reduce repetitive tasks, reduce errors caused by bad writing and so on. However, the physician side of EHRs has been somewhat slow to catch on because of the huge barriers to entry, such as converting existing records, changing the way documentation gets done and the cost of implementing a comprehensive system. Recent government financial incentives are boosting acceptance of the MD office-based EMR.

On the consumer side, some of the same issues have hindered large scale adoption of EHRs. First of all, it takes a long time to input the information and secondly, the record is only useful if it is kept up to date, placing a lot of pressure on people to manage the information correctly. However, as technology has improved, especially with mobile applications that make it easy for the user to retreive and enter data, the use and valud of EHRs for consumers has grown.

Most families keep some kind of health records, even if it's just copies of medical reports. Unfortunately, that kind of recordkeeping isn't all that helpful when you're in a doctor's office and you can't remember when you got your last tetanus shot. Storing information electronically can improve accuracy, provide information where you need it, when you need it and allow you to analyze yours or your family's health. But how do you choose a record keeping system to use?

Frankly, we think that there's still quite a long way to go in this area and none of the record keeping systems do everything that we'd like. But, there are some excellent programs out there. We have selected twelve recordkeeping systems that we liked the most and explained why we think so.

(1) HealthVault

Microsoft has made a huge investment in their personal health record program and it shows. Their system offers an extensive recordkeeping system, the opportunity to create family records and links to many other applications that enhance the value of your information. Through HealthVault's "ecosystem" of connected, patient-friendly applications, you can store copies of your health records; upload information from health and fitness devices; provide information to your doctor, coach or therapist; and access products and services. We think that Microsoft is leading the pack in this area.

We love the device integration, the tab that gives you a history of the changes that have been made and the tab that allows you to select who you will share information with. However, Microsoft is so busy promoting its affiliates that it's hard to figure out how you as an individual user can enter data. They also use some overly technical language such as "continuity of care" documents that are quite confusing. Interestingly, there's no real emphasis on prevention tools and that's a big gap, in our opinion. They also need a crumb trail; we thought we saw some prevention management tools at one point, but could never find our way back to the same page!

(2) Google Health

Google is another major player that has invested a lot of time and money into their EHR. Their record is quite comprehensive with lots of dropdown menus. We found, however, that the menus weren't always complete enough so they can create confusion. This program can link to small group of other databases. If yours is listed, it's great. For example, if you belong to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, you can directly import the last two years of your medical information, saving time and improving accuracy.

There are many applications you can link to that help manage medications, find clinical trials, convert paper records, get coordination assistance, link your record to doctor's office and more. This EHR is easy to use and contains lots of management tools but it still feels quite "young "in its evolution. Once again, not much emphasis on prevention or, if there is, it's not obvious.

(3) Health Minder

This is a great EHR system! It's very comprehensive, covering not just the basics but includes medical expense and claims tracking, pet medical history, family history, smoking, exercise, lifestyle issues, observations (so you can make a note when you experience something different and track what you are worried about), reminders, job related risks, environmental issues and more. The system is very easy to use. It does not have the linking and expanded apps opportunities available through the biggies such as Google and Microsoft but it's more comprehensive and easier to use. Apparently other organizations agree because it's won quite a few awards. It costs $35 annually.

(4) My Healthe Vet

The VA really got it right with this online personal health record. This well designed system not only includes all of the usual health tracking options, vets can also refill prescriptions electronically, access benefit information and do research on their conditions.

(5) Health Manager

This offering from the Mayo Clinic works with Microsoft HealthVault and gives you advice from Mayo Clinic experts when you need it. Recommendations are created just for you and updated in response to your health information. The more complete your profile, the more tailored your recommendations become, making it easier for you to proactively maintain your health. This is a great marriage of Microsoft's database function and Mayo Clinic's diagnostic expertise.

(6) Cloud PHR Pro

Cloud PHR Pro is the paid version of Cloud PHR. You may or may not need the paid version; we just like what this mobile application does for you. There are a lot of mobile PHR apps being promoted; we like this one best. The Pro version gives you the option of caching your data, allowing you browse your health record in a doctor's office without Wi-Fi or cellular service. The user interface is also improved, with faster load times and a more readable display of health information. Profiles can be assigned pictures, allowing you to manage your family's health information in a more natural way. Whether you use the free or paid version, this mobile app brings information where you need it.

(7) AccessMyRecords.com

This EHR takes a somewhat different approach. Their system is designed to collect information that can be used in an emergency or in a doctor's office. The scope of information is much greater. You are able to upload documents such as your will or trust, passport, driver's license, birth certificate, transcripts, homeowners, automobile and life insurance policies, real estate closing documents, and more. You are issued a card that gives EMS or other helpers the ability to access your data.

There are a number of these kinds of offerings including those that put info on a microchip in a bracelet or on a memory stick that you wear around your neck. We thought this group was unusual and interesting in that it added proxies and other information that can be very relevant in an emergency situation. The service costs $30 per individual; $50 per couple; add children at $20 each.

(8) GlobalPatientRecord

In addition to the usual health information, this EHR also provides a central location for all legal information, such as living will, power of attorney and Do Not Resuscitate information, emergency contacts information, reminders of future check-ups, medical history and is also available as a mobile application. Unfortunately, we couldn't get the demo to work and the site makes it a bit difficult to know how to sign up.

(9) myMediConnect

This is one of several EHRs that eliminates the problem of getting all that information loaded. You can add your own info or pay to have the service add the information for you. This record keeping system is very comprehensive and interactive, including prescription reminders, health savings calculator, health education, and links with Microsoft HealthVault. Sign up is free but retrieval services can be expensive.

(10) CheckUp

This EHR is fairly comprehensive, as well, with the addition of automatic risk assessments. We liked the way this system handled information but found that it is very standalone with no integration with any other applications.

(11) MedsFile.com

This free system looked good but we couldn't access the demo so we couldn't test it very well. The EHR stores lists of medications, supplements, allergies, emergency contacts, immunizations, personal and family history, procedures and surgeries and emergency contacts. You receive a card that allows MDs or EMTs to access files from your cell phone.

(12) My Health Diary

This EHR is actually dedicated to issues related to blood such as donations and AIDS. And it has a very nice personal health record system. You can create charts of your clinical investigations including blood pressure and blood sugar readings, all types of clinical tests, treatments, diagnosis and medical images with the ability to access reports & data online. There are some excellent health calculators available here as well. It's an interesting product with a lot of information but doesn't seem well integrated.

In summary, you can gain a lot of insight into your health by using an EHR and remain in better control of your information. Don't get sick without one!

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2011-09-21T20:07:00.001-07:00

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