Finding specific information is much easier. Instead of leafing through a patient s record to find the last time their albuterol canister was filled, the EMR allows you to keep a computerized record of all prescriptions and find specific information with the click of a mouse. If multiple records need to be reviewed to determine your total number of prescriptions for inhaled corticosteroids in a given month, EMR allows you to search all medical records and print a detailed report. This is a boon to physicians who use outcomes data. Furthermore, storing data on a computer means that the record cannot be misplaced.
Patient care is improved.
Using EMR allows you to graphically display the patient s progress during a visit, reminds you when a prescription will run out, and can automatically prompt office staff to send reminders for visits. EMR systems can also search the patient s record for other prescriptions to alert you to potential drug interactions when writing prescriptions. Of course, nothing is perfect. This is probably the most significant drawback. These figures do not include upgrades or software licenses.