What is an electronic medical record (EMR)?
An electronic medical record (EMR) is an electronic record stored in digital format of a patient's medical history that allows for easy access to patient data and information, usually found as a computer-based patient record in a physician's office or hospital setting. In 2004 President Bush set a goal for most Americans to have an electronic medical record (EMR) by the year 2014. President Obama recently showed his support for this ideal by signing the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009 (economic stimulus package) which dedicates tens of billions of dollars for advancing health information technology, including EHR's, EMR's and PHR's. |
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What is a personal health record (PHR)?
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A personal health record or PHR is typically a health record that is initiated and maintained by an individual. An ideal PHR would provide a complete and accurate summary of the health and medical history of an individual by gathering data from many sources and making this information accessible online to anyone who has the necessary electronic credentials to view the information.
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Are there different types of personal health records (PHR's)?
Yes, personal health records can be as simple as a written or typed list of medications that a person is taking. A medical I.D. that contains information could also be considered a personal health record. A more desirable personal PHR would contain detailed personal health information from many sources, compiled and stored on a personal computer, flash drive or other digital media, or stored online through a PHR vendor. These PHR's should have the capability to be shared directly with healthcare providers or via the internet, cellular phones or other mobile devices. |
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Is privacy a concern with Electronic Medical Records (EMR's)?
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| Privacy and security are major concerns with electronic medical records. These concerns are being addressed by various groups and organizations (ONCHIT, CCHIT, etc.) who work to set standards for the accessiblity and exchange of personal health information. Probably one of the most significant findings recently is that although consumers realize that electronic records do increase the risk of breach of privacy (61%), they believe by a 3 to 1 margin that allowing care givers and researchers to use electronic records can improve overall healthcare. |
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Are there privacy and security issues with Personal Health Records (PHR's)?
Privacy and security are important when dealing with personal health records (PHR's) as well. Issues regarding privacy or HIPPA requirements may be lessened since personal health records are controlled by the individual patient who should set guidelines for sharing they are comfortable with. Security and accessibility issues are currently being addressed and standards are being set that will ensure the safety of those using PHR's. When you create a personal health record you should have control over who you want to share it with and what information is shared. |
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How do Personal Health Records benefit me?
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Personal health records benefit patients in a number of ways. Storing your health information in one place is one of the great advantages of personal health records. Digital storage of PHR's can provide you with a tool that makes it easy to share more complete and accurate information with healthcare providers to help them provide better care for you. PHR's can save you time and reduce paperwork by allowing you to share your basic health information not only with your primary caregiver but with any specialists you may be referred to. The use of PHR's can help you avoid medication errors or adverse drug reactions and reduce unnecessary labwork or procedures. The sharing of your complete personal history with your physician will help him or her provide better medical care to you and your family that will ensure positive patient outcomes.
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