Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systems continue to revolutionize the healthcare industry, especially in today’s digital world. They have enabled the systematic and safe collection of patient data which is then electronically stored in a database. With the advent of newer technology such as cloud computing, the benefits of EMR go far beyond improving healthcare services. Here are ten advantages of installing EMR systems within your medical facility.
1. Aid Proper Medical Diagnosis
Over 12 million Americans suffer from misdiagnosis every year while seeking for outpatient care. The staggering number may arise from delayed access to patient information. EMR integration software eliminates the need to manually track down previous medical records as they are available at the click of a button. The combination and sharing of clinical data allow practitioners to identify and stratify chronic illnesses.
2. Easier Access to Information
The search button within the medical database hastens the extraction of patient files. Remember that having to comb through thousands of filed paperwork may waste time during a doctor’s office visit. During an emergency, quick access to this information is critical and may be life-saving.
Also, computational statistics significantly improve the collection of data during clinical trials.
3. Less Storage Space
The medical industry takes in a massive chunk of the 92 million metric tons of paper produced every year. The paperwork requires filing and occupies large storage areas. Technology provides a better alternative where data is stored in a cloud-based server reducing the need for physical storage spaces for your medical files.
4. Lab Interface Provides Faster Test Results
Traditional paper systems involve the printing of lab reports, placed on a paper chart for a physician to review. One of the benefits of EMR is a reduction of the time the test results are availed for review. Additionally, integrated systems reduce duplicated testing and allow access to previous test results of a specific patient.
5. Increased Efficiency
Converting from paper to electronic medical records improves quality care, thus reducing cases of hospitalization. The integrated software allows for a personalized patient experience that leads to proper health care. The doctor can also easily review the patient’s records remotely leading to a broader outreach.
6. Improved Data Security
According to the Gartner Group, approximately 15% of all paper documents are misplaced, and 7.5% are lost completely. Loss of hospital paperwork may lead to leaking of patient information that may violate their privacy. Most Clinical Content Consultants offer EMR solutions with robust firewalls that prevent data breaches in line with the HIPPA Act. Backups also provide for information recovery in case of data loss or corruption a feature that is not possible with paper systems.
7. Accurate Documentation
During fast-paced medical procedures, especially during emergencies, medical notes scribbled quickly may be hard to decipher. Illegible writing may lead to misdiagnosis, which affects patient care. EMR software eliminates the legibility issues as the notes are typed. The improved organization enables easier access to precise health records.
8. Emergency Response
Healthcare providers report increased efficiency when responding to emergencies while using EMR. Accidents and other catastrophic events may cause patients to be confused and frightened, making it hard to remember medical details. Immediate access to patient’s vital information such as medical history, blood type, and allergies may be a matter of life and death.
In Conclusion
Converting from paper to electronic health records offers numerous advantages. The benefits of EMR cut across patient care and medical practitioners’ efficiency. Please get in touch with CIS consulting for more information on EMR systems.