EMR System

What is an Electronic Medical Record?

An Electronic Medical Record (EMR) is a software tool used in patient care.  It is a computer based system with the ability to monitor patient care and organize documentation, both new and old, while being compatible with other software systems to allow for access to patient information from multiple locations. 

Why an Electronic Medical Record?

In January 2005, the Bush Administration called for the creation of a nationwide network of electronic health records within 10 years.  The National Health Information Network was organized to lead this initiative.  The purpose of the project is to "create an interoperable national system for the secure exchange of healthcare information...making patient information accessible and usable at the point of care, wherever and whenever it is needed" says Dr. Bill Crouse, M.D., the global healthcare manager for the Microsoft Corporation.  In accordance with this mandate, Orlando Heart Center elected to implement an electronic medical record system in April 2006. 

How does using an EMR benefit the patient?

1.  An EMR provides better security of patient information.  All patient information is securely stored in a database with unique identifiers for each patient.

2.  Easier access to patient records allows our physicians to treat patients in the hospital more efficiently because the physician can access the patient's records while being in the hospital.  On the reverse side, the physician is able to look at hospital records while treating the patient in the office. 

3.  An electronic chart can never be lost or misplaced.

4.  Copying records for patients or other physicians is as easy clicking "print" as long as proper HIPAA authorization is acquired.

5.  An EMR provides the physicians with a quick allergy and drug interaction check when new medications are prescribed to ensure patient safety.

6.  EMR systems allow for better time management in the office to aid the physicians in making the best of their time in each office visit.

7.  An EMR gives physicians and nurses access to patient records 24 hours per day from any computer with internet access.  This allows for faster response time in urgent situations because physicians no longer need to wait for a paper chart and are not hindered by not having a chart after hours. 

We care about the service provided to our patients and are very pleased to have our Electronic Medical Record up and running.  Please call our office to schedule an appointment and see for yourself that the level of customer service and patient care at Orlando Heart Center rises to the top.