The main purpose of this article is to present the current controversy of utilizing electronic records (EMR) in place of paper records in today’s medical environment. Specifically, the article mentions the pros of an EMR as being; making it easier to share medical information, making access to medical records more fluid, and reducing the overall cost of care delivery. It also mentions the cons such as; loss of privacy, inability to control access to information, and hacking.
The EMR would have a pronounced effect on health care delivery. It would make care delivery less costly since multiple paper documents and repeated tests would not be needed. In addition, patient frustration over filling out similar forms time and time again each time a new provider is used would be alleviated. The information for any particular patient would be shared among all providers so a new provider in the patient’s care system would have the same information as the patient’s primary care physician.
The main fear in the industry due to this technology is protection of privacy. The current [i]system (the article cites the VA system which is already in use) does not control access, it merely monitors it. With no way of managing who has access to what level, the fear is that patients would be less forthcoming with their medical matters and may not seek treatment as often as they might in a private setting. In addition, the embarrassment of certain diseases or symptoms may more than what the patient is willing to bear with an EMR.
The author concludes the article by noting the overwhelming need for an EMR, but mentions that such a solution must include functions to protect privacy and limit access. I do agree with the author, but as a member of the healthcare system, my main concern is cost of care delivery. With the current medical cost trends reaching a 15% year over year increase, I am ok with a little less privacy if the cost trends can be more affordable. As with any good in a free market economy, one must expect to pay for additional features including privacy and complete privacy is not a luxury we as society may be able to continue affording.