How can you use EHRs to improve patient outcomes?

1 Enhance communication and coordination

One of the benefits of EHRs is that they can facilitate communication and coordination among different healthcare providers, such as doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and specialists. EHRs can enable seamless information sharing, reduce duplication of tests and procedures, and prevent adverse drug interactions. By having access to a comprehensive and updated view of a patient's health status, providers can make better decisions and deliver more personalized and coordinated care.

2 Empower patients and caregivers

Another benefit of EHRs is that they can empower patients and caregivers to take an active role in their own health management. EHRs can provide patients with secure online portals where they can view their health records, test results, medication lists, and care plans. They can also communicate with their providers, request appointments, refill prescriptions, and receive reminders and alerts. By giving patients more control and information, EHRs can increase their engagement, satisfaction, and adherence to treatment.

4 Ensure compliance and security

A fourth benefit of EHRs is that they can ensure compliance and security of health information. EHRs can help providers comply with various laws and regulations, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA), and the Meaningful Use program. EHRs can also protect health information from unauthorized access, loss, or theft by using encryption, authentication, and backup systems. By following the standards and guidelines for EHRs, providers can safeguard the privacy and integrity of health information.

6 Overcome challenges and barriers

A sixth benefit of EHRs is that they can overcome some of the challenges and barriers that may hinder patient outcomes. EHRs can address issues such as geographic distance, language barriers, health literacy, and social determinants of health. EHRs can enable telehealth, remote monitoring, and mobile health services that can extend the reach and access of healthcare to rural and underserved populations. EHRs can also provide translation, education, and communication tools that can help patients and providers overcome cultural and linguistic differences. EHRs can also incorporate social and behavioral data that can help providers understand and address the social and environmental factors that affect health outcomes.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?