Electronic Health Record or (EHR) might sound like a complex term which is relatively new. But the history behind it has a long and rich past. From paper-based health record systems to modern day IT systems, the medical profession has come a long way when it comes to tracking patient health information.
In this blog, we will go through the evolution of EHR healthcare.
What Are Electronic Health Records?
Electronic health records are digital versions of the patient’s medical record that include extensive information about their health, treatments and medical history. It includes information such as patient demographics, medical diagnoses, medications, allergies, diagnostic test results and treatment plans.
Early Medical Documentation
Electronic health record history can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. These civilizations used various methods to record medical information that included hieroglyphics, papyrus scrolls and wax tablets.
During the Middle Ages, medical documentation was done by the clergy who used to be the literate members of the society. They would transcribe medical information in religious texts, and medical knowledge was passed down through monasteries and religious orders.
It was in the 17th century that providers started using notebooks to record observations, treatments, and outcomes. It played a big part in the evolution of EHR healthcare. These notebooks worked as a precursor to current medical records and were one of the first systematic attempts to document medical information.
The electronic charting system was developed in the 19th century which introduced standardized forms for medical documentation. This helped improve the organization and consistency of medical records. Hospitals and healthcare providers began developing their systems for medical documentation. This included coded medical terminologies and standardized abbreviations.
Pre-Electronic Documentation
Earlier medical documentation was maintained using a paper-based system. The medical records were stored in folders or binders secured in filing cabinets. This made it difficult for healthcare providers to access patient information quickly.
Healthcare providers used various forms and templates to document medical information which included patient demographics, medial history, treatments, diagnoses and outcomes. These firms were made standard among healthcare organizations which ensured consistency and accuracy.
Medical documentation included progress notes which were used by healthcare providers to document their observations and findings. Progress notes were maintained by hand and included information such as patient symptoms, vital signs, medications and treatment plans.
Apart from progress notes, medical documentation includes various medical reports such as laboratory and diagnostic test results, radiology reports, and pathology reports. These reports were generated by specialized departments within healthcare organizations. It was stored in a separate location from the patient’s medical record.
Handwritten documentation posed several challenges such as bad handwriting, incomplete information, and difficulty in sharing information with other healthcare providers. These challenges increased the chances of medical errors, miscommunication, and delay in patient care.
Early Data Processing System
Initial data processing systems were developed in the 1960’s and 1970’s when computers became more readily available. These systems were used to automate administrative tasks like billing and scheduling instead of clinical studies.
One of the earliest computer-based medical record systems was the Regenstrief Medical Record System (RMRS). It was developed in the 1970s by researchers at the Regenstrief Institute in Indiana. It was designed to capture and store patient data in a structured format that allowed healthcare providers to access and evaluate patient information.
Another early system was the Problem-Oriented Medical Record (POMR) that was developed in the 1960s by Dr Lawrence Weed.
As technology advanced more sophisticated electronic health record systems were developed. This allowed healthcare providers to capture patient data that includes demographic information, medical history, diagnoses, medications and treatment plans.
Rise of Electronic Health Records
A number of factors are responsible for the evolution of EHR healthcare. Let's take a look at some.
Advancements in Technology
With advancements in technology, digitizing medical records became more accessible and cost-effective. This has helped healthcare providers of all sizes to adopt electronic health records. This brought the necessity of electronic health record software.
Government Regulations
The Health Information Technology for Economical and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act of 2009 provides financial incentives to healthcare providers who adopted EHRs. This motivated adoption of EHRs particularly among smaller providers who need more resources to invest in EHRs otherwise.
Improved Patient Care
Electronic Health Record can help improve the quality of patient care by providing healthcare providers with real time access to patient records. This allows for better coordinated care across different providers, reducing the risks of medical errors.
Cost Savings
EHRs helps reduce administrative costs related to paper-based medical records such as printing, storage and retrieval.
Data Analytics
Electronic Health Records provide valuable data that can be used to improve healthcare outcomes and reduce costs. By analyzing the data from EHRs, providers can identify the trends, track patient results, and identify areas for improvement.
Future Trends of EHR in Healthcare
The future of EHR will be shaped according to the technological advancements in the field. Let's take a look at some of the key elements that may define the future of EHR.
Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
Artificial intelligence and Machine Learning technologies will be integrated into the EHR system mor efficiently. This could lead to more precise diagnoses, enhanced treatment plans, and personalized care.
Internet of Things
Internet of Things refers to the interconnections of devices and sensors that collect and share data. In healthcare internet of things can be used to monitor patients remotely along with collection of real-time health data that can be stored in EHRs.
Blockchain
Blockchain technology can improve the security and privacy of EHRs by providing a decentralized and tamper-proof record of all the transactions and data access.
Virtual & Augmented Reality
This technology can help you create immersive training experiences for healthcare providers and improve patient education and engagement.
Personalized Medicine
Digitizing medical records requires a lot of work. Electronic Health Records play a vital role in the future of personalized medicine by storing patient-specific health data. This allows healthcare providers to tailor treatment plans to individual patients.
The future trends of EHR in Healthcare will be shaped according to the technological advancements of the time. As healthcare delivery models evolve, Electronic Health Records play an important role in ensuring that the patients receive coordinated and high-quality care.
Conclusion
Now that you have learnt about the evolution of EHR healthcare, you might be wondering how you can use the power of EHR to simplify your process.
Well, with passing time the requirements and complexities in the world of medical billing have also increased. However, these complexities can be tackled easily with the help of medical billing professionals like Unify Healthcare Services.
Unify healthcare services is a well-established name in the world of medical billing. We have trained professionals who can take care of all your medical billing and coding requirements. We make sure that all your documentation is done precisely so that your claims can be reimbursed quickly.
Unify Healthcare Services envisions making billing easy and efficient for everyone so that the providers can run their practice smoothly. We don’t just offer medical billing services; we offer peace of mind.
