Significant differences between electronic medical records (EMRs) and electronic health records (EHRs) involve the ways that these systems are set up to provide for their eventual use. Much confusion exists about the differences between these two systems. Experts point out that modern governments have clarified these issues through specific definitions for each type of electronic records system. The main difference between EMR and EHR systems is that the EHR can be used across a “community” of medical providers, where the EMR is typically used within a single facility or provider system.
Both EMRs and EHRs are forms of electronic medical record-keeping for medical businesses, providers, and facilities. Both of these are very much in demand by medical businesses that want to provide modern standards of care. These electronic systems can help to avoid surgical error and other kinds of medical malpractice, while allowing medical workers to treat patients with more speed and effectiveness.
The kinds of information contained in these records can help the leaders of medical businesses who are looking for the best electronic record systems to suit their needs. Professionals, called EMR consultants, can also weigh in on these issues, helping medical providers to choose various kinds of EMR and EHR systems for use. Each form of record has distinct advantages and disadvantages.
Some of the consequences of choosing either one of these electronic medical record systems are apparent to many consultants, as well as some providers. Some of these are indicated by specific language in the common definitions of EMR and EHR systems. For example, part of the EHR definition revolves around “continuation of care” making it clear that the main benefit of these systems is that of portability between providers. The EHR provides a more comprehensive, deep background or history for a patient, with more information about how different health conditions were treated by various providers.
In contrast, some of the language in the definition for EMRs involves “order entry” and “clinical decision support.” Clinical decision support is a term for the way that software can help humans make individual decisions within a clinical or healthcare context. Those who look carefully at EMR systems see how these types of electronic medical record programs can accomplish these goals. For example, EMRs may be more likely than EHRs to have specific visible modules that help doctors to mark areas of concern or identify diagnosis or treatment. Generally, the EMR will focus on how to document work within the context of the provider’s office or facility, and may even be oriented toward specific medical conditions.
The above makes it clear that some medical providers who want more comprehensive history will tend to go with EHR systems. By contrast, other more specialized medical providers who want more surgical or diagnosis support tools might go with EMR systems. A more detailed view will help medical businesses to consider all of the aspects of modern EMR and EHR systems, to pick the ones that will help their staff, fit into their software architecture, and provide the most value for cost.