The Evolution of Electronic Health Records: A Review of Technological, Regulatory, and Clinical Impacts
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53555/eijmhs.v2i1.213Keywords:
Electronic Health Records (EHRs), clinical impacts, public health, data privacy, data securityAbstract
Electronic Health Records (EHRs) have revolutionized the healthcare landscape, morphing from simple digital versions of paper charts into complex, integral systems that influence almost every facet of medical care. This journey hasn't been straightforward. It's been shaped by a blend of technological advancements, regulatory pressures, and clinical needs, weaving a narrative of innovation, adaptation, and sometimes, frustration. At their core, EHRs aim to make health information more accessible and improve the quality of care, but they've also introduced challenges like steep learning curves for healthcare professionals and concerns over patient privacy. Regulations have played a double-edged sword—driving adoption forward while sometimes adding layers of complexity. Technologically, we've seen EHRs evolve from basic databases to sophisticated platforms that can analyze big data, predict patient outcomes, and even support telemedicine. Clinically, the impact has been profound. EHRs have facilitated a more holistic view of patient care, enabling better coordination among healthcare providers and enhancing patient engagement through features like online access to personal health records. As we look towards the future, the evolution of EHRs continues to be an exciting, albeit daunting, frontier in healthcare, promising further integration of cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain. This narrative not only reflects the growth of EHRs but also the changing dynamics of healthcare delivery, illustrating a path toward a more efficient, transparent, and patient-centered system.
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