As doctors and hospitals transition to electronic medical records there are some important factors that need immediate attention. Concerns include data leakage, computer crashes, software defects, and user errors. Not having a set of standards or requirements for electronic medical records is continuing to put patients at an increased risk of medical malpractice. There is currently no federal regulation that requires the disclosure of software issues. On top of the cons is the fact that there is a deadline for doctors and hospitals to be implementing the electronic medical records by 2015 or there will be fees set by the government. Some believe that the push could lead to more medical errors.
On a more positive note, the electronic medical records system allow patients to access their records, give medical personnel instant access to medical records, and it helps cut costs by eliminating unnecessary tests and procedures.
Change can be difficult for anyone but there is said to be a light at the end of the tunnel. Once there is a code of conduct in place to ensure usability and safety of the electronic systems and medical personnel have been trained and become comfortable with the new technology.
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