Technology has greatly impacted healthcare dispensation in healthcare facilitates. Clinicians are now able to give an accurate diagnosis due to the integration of technology into healthcare systems. The use of CT scans, X-rays, and MRI has enabled screening of the human system to give clinicians a clear picture of a patient’s ailment. One notable technology that promises to increase quality care dispensation is Electronic Health Records (EHR).EHR is a digital chart that contains a patient’s data. The technology allows physicians to access a patient’s data efficiently. This discussion will give insight into EHR. The research question answered by the discussion is, “Will the use of EHR improve on quality of care in healthcare facilities?”
The topic of EHR is important as it tries to show the exact impact the system has on patients’ quality of care. Health is an important subject as it affects the human population as a whole. The EHR offers a platform where clinicians can get a patient’s history, vitals, and prescribed medication at a glance.
Improving health is, therefore, of great significance. To show the EHR system’s impact, we will review two scholarly journals and give clear examples of how it improves care dispensation.
Menachemi, N., & Collum. (2011). Benefits and drawbacks of electronic health record systems. Risk Management And Healthcare Policy, 47. https://doi.org/10.2147/rmhp.s12985
The journal explains the benefits and drawbacks that come with the EHR system. The author suggests that the EHR system reduces medical errors by highlighting the patient’s history and course of action. The system improves quality by allowing real-time monitoring of the patient. The system records data that could be used in conducting research that could improve the care provided to patients in the future. The article mentions cost as the main drawback. The author argues that the cost of procuring and maintaining the system is high.
The study is significant as it points out how the EHR system improves on the quality of care. Showing how the EHR can help clinicians rid of medical errors is a clear indication that the quality of care will improve. Clinical Teams will share patient history faster and efficiently, thereby eliminating the chances of prescribing reactive medications to patients.
Campanella, P., Lovato, E., Marone, C., Fallacara, L., Mancuso, A., Ricciardi, W., & Specchia, M. (2015). The impact of electronic health records on healthcare quality: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The European Journal Of Public Health, 26(1), 60-64. https://doi.org/10.1093/eurpub/ckv122
The study gave a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published in four credible databases. The study aimed to show the correlation between EHR implementation and outcome indicators. The study used two reviewers who gave an independent analysis of the selected studies using PRISMA guidelines. The study registered a reduced documentation time when EHR was used. It also showed that The study found out that EHR can improve care quality by heightening efficiency and adherence to guidelines. EHR also eliminate medical errors in the healthcare setting.
The study is appropriate as it analyses credible researches to point out how the EHR led to improved care. The EHR increased the adherence to guidelines, which is critical in avoiding medical errors; When clinicians stick to guidelines, they reduce the risk of making errors. By giving evidence using existing research, the study proved that the EHR had a practical impact on quality improvement. There is enough evidence to show how the EHR system improves the quality of care. Integrating them into the care system will ensure that patients get the best care available.