Conclusion
EHRs have redefined the relationship between healthcare providers and patients and have created unique opportunities to improve health care delivery and workflow. EHR implementation requires considerable investment, therefore it is fundamental that managers are able to identify and manage elements of EHR implementation that are critical to enhance time efficiency of documentation and privacy/security of patient information. EHRs increase communication, collaboration, and timely interventions for patients, however the overriding limitations of costs, privacy and security need to be considered. In order for EHRs to remain sustainable in the long-term and be accepted and utilized, it is vital that practitioners and policymakers direct their attention to the many unresolved issues surrounding consent, privacy, and legal implications for healthcare practitioners. These barriers must be overcome in order for both health care providers and consumers to trust and accept EHRs. Once barriers are removed the health care system will better meet its full potential. In addition, because of the rapid pace of technological change, ongoing assessments of quality standards in EHRs are critical.
EHRs have redefined the relationship between healthcare providers and patients and have created unique opportunities to improve health care delivery and workflow. EHR implementation requires considerable investment, therefore it is fundamental that managers are able to identify and manage elements of EHR implementation that are critical to enhance time efficiency of documentation and privacy/security of patient information. EHRs increase communication, collaboration, and timely interventions for patients, however the overriding limitations of costs, privacy and security need to be considered. In order for EHRs to remain sustainable in the long-term and be accepted and utilized, it is vital that practitioners and policymakers direct their attention to the many unresolved issues surrounding consent, privacy, and legal implications for healthcare practitioners. These barriers must be overcome in order for both health care providers and consumers to trust and accept EHRs. Once barriers are removed the health care system will better meet its full potential. In addition, because of the rapid pace of technological change, ongoing assessments of quality standards in EHRs are critical.