To the editor:
In Sarah Kliff’s article “The future of electronic medical records, in one doctor’s visit,” it shows the potential for electronic medical records to revolutionize record keeping and access to information. Although the idea has been around for several years, there has been no drive towards a complete revamp and it was only recently that the Recovery Act and Affordable Care Act has provided funds and incentives towards “meaningful use” of digital records. Digitization of records, however, has faced much opposition from many practitioners who prefer paper, which they claim is more reliable and efficient. What new studies have found, albeit dependent on more than a pen, digital records have not only improved operational efficiency, but have also resulted in significant system wide reductions in costs. In addition, digital record programs implemented in Emergency rooms have even been shown to aid in quicker diagnosis and treatment. A universal network must be established and incentivized in order for the digital records to be extremely effective. What would foster this transition are larger federal incentives, especially for small practices, ease of access into the universal network, and a deadline to phase out paper records.
Sincerely,
Nicholas Hu
Berkeley, CA
Dear Nicholas,
ReplyDeleteIt's definitely a great idea to have electronic records, especially in the Emergency Room where time is of the essence. However, a problem that arises with patient confidentiality. If everything was loaded digitally into one system, one can hack into the centralized system and obtain anyone's medical information. One solution could be adopting Taiwan's system where everyone's record is loaded into a card and it's up to the patient to not lose the card.
Sincerely,
Cindy Lau
Dear Nicholas,
ReplyDeleteI agree that it is a very good idea for the medical field to start having electronic records. Electronic records can greatly help patients who perhaps see multiple physicians. I remember that for me a frustrating experience has always been to try and recount my medical history to different doctors. This system reminds me of Taiwan's system and how all patients have a memory card that essentially has all of the history on it.
Good Job on your post,
Partow
Hey Nicholas,
ReplyDeleteThis is indeed a very intriguing article especially in a time of escalating medical costs. We should definitely be looking to minimize costs anywhere we can and this is a good way to start.
Best,
Jisu