Don’t scan all paper records into EMR. Scanning indiscriminately is expensive, disruptive, and doesn’t contribute to ongoing clinical excellence. As part of the conversion process, vendors have methods to enter critical clinical information into the electronic system for uninterrupted use. Instead of wholesale scanning, therefore, be selective and scan only clinically relevant materials—the past several Pap smear results, mammogram reports, operative reports, consultant letters, and similar predefined clinical documents. This usually suffices for ongoing clinical care and avoids excessive expenditure of time, energy, and money.
The promise we talk about needs to become actual
As I noted at the outset, fewer than 25% of physicians have EMR, and estimates are that no more than 10% to 15% of ObGyns have adopted a system. Yet experience has demonstrated: A well-designed EMR offers physicians streamlined workflow, the ability to provide better care, and more time for leisure.
To move the flow and utility of medical information properly into this century, the next step, I urge, is for physicians to recognize the value of EMR, set goals for implementing a system, and reengineer their practice for maximal clinical efficiency, patient safety, and financial gain.
CASE REVISITED: Good outcome; no recurrence
One year later, the ObGyn whose practice was in disarray told a different story: “The ‘Patient Portal’ section of our EMR system is a great time saver. We were amazed at the acceptance and rapid adoption—even our octogenarians love it. The universal access to data is of incalculable value. One of our physicians loves to go home early, have dinner, and then review his charts from home. The EMR improves my recordkeeping, makes encounter documentation more complete, and helps me avoid medication errors. Our billing staff loves the thorough documentation.”