![]() ![]() A study conducted by Dwight, Nichol & Perlin (2006) reported that poor legibility associated with traditional paper-based records contributed significantly to medical errors however, the use of electronic records facilitated legibility because of standardization of forms and data input, which in turn helped in reducing the prevalence of medical errors and improving reliability of medical records. The second advantage of EMRs is that it helps in reducing human errors. Milewski & Anurag (2009) point out that this helps in speeding up doctor collaborations, which in turn improves the quality of healthcare administered to patients. ![]() Accessibility of electronic records is relatively easier and faster than the traditional paper records. Milewski & Anurag (2009) affirm that EMRs are the preferred record management system because they guarantee effective coordination of patient care by healthcare personnel. As a result, there is the need for healthcare practices to evaluate the pros and cons of EMR to decide on whether or not to implement this form of records management system.ĮMRs have numerous advantages including accessibility. Nevertheless, most healthcare institutions have adopted EMR are still using paper based records. Healthcare institutions are increasingly adopting EMRs over the traditional paper-based record keeping. With numerous healthcare and medical firms migrating towards paperless record keeping, reviewing the pros and cons of EMRs is one of the most efficient methods of evaluating the ideal solution to the issue of safe and efficient management and keeping medical records. ![]() In addition, the paper outlines a resolution to the issue and implications for master’s prepared nurses. This paper outlines the pros and cons of EMRs and takes a personal position on the issue that EMRs are required to enhance the quality of medical care. Irrespective of the potential benefits of using EMRs, paper-based records are still the prevalent means of recording patient data in most healthcare institutions and practices in the United States. (2009), EMRs are central towards the effective implementation of computerized health information systems and modern technologies in healthcare such as decision support systems. EMRs are a component of an independent health information system that allows medical personnel to store, retrieve, and modify health records. Deltev & Berner (2007) define EMRs as a form of computerized medical record implemented to facilitate health care delivery. Deltev & Berner (2007) considers Electronic Medical Records (EMR) as a significant prerequisite for the implementation of computerized health information systems. In addition, computerized systems implemented in healthcare systems have been used primarily for administrative functions instead of clinical practices. Nevertheless, the use of computerized systems in healthcare has not been widespread as the case of other sectors such as transportation, finance, retail industries and manufacturing. The identified resolutions on the issue include the participation and sufficient training of medical personnel on EMRs and reducing the cost of implementation in order to sensitize healthcare organizations to adopt EMRs.įor centuries, healthcare systems have relied on paper-based records, and the gradual transition towards computerized systems has been taking place for at least two decades in western healthcare systems. A critical review of the pros and cons pointed out that even with the apparent drawbacks, the move from the paper records to electronic records are likely to increase the efficiency and safety of patient record management and enhance the quality of healthcare delivery. The cons of EMRs are possible privacy threats, lack of standardization since EMR is an emerging concept, enormous implementation costs, and loss of human oversight. The pros of EMRs discussed in the essay are: the elimination of medical errors, enhanced security and safety, and cost efficiency because of data consolidation. This paper reviewed the pros and cons of electronic medical records to advocate for the transition towards the use of electronic medical records. ![]()
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