Understanding Scanned Charts Integration Into EMR Systems

The Healthcare Stimulus Bill introduced by the Obama administration has earmarked considerable incentives for healthcare professionals/medical facilities that are ready to adopt a more transparent and secure form of PHI storage in the form of EMRs, i.e. Electronic Medical Records. However, there are still some apprehensions regarding the economic, technological feasibility and user-friendliness of electronic health records in the healthcare system that still depends upon conventional methods of date storage, i.e. paper records.

EMR softwares

It should be understood that the electronic format of storing/accessing PHI uses a simple technology wherein paper records are scanned into images. These images saved into the EHR software being used within the healthcare facility. There are a number of options when it comes to choosing EHR softwares and each of them uses images in the form of PDF files stored to create an electronic warehouse of information. This essentially means that besides a few tech-savvy add-ons and varying pricing range, all EHR softwares provide the same basic functionality - scanned healthcare records in the form of PDF files that are maintained in a more secured manner since they are uploaded onto a user-friendly, computer-based software. Medical records in the form of PDF files can be accessed with minimal effort, i.e. just a few clicks of the mouse.

Further, EHR softwares are adept at managing medical/personal patient data, since each bit of scanned information is automatically saved in appropriate folders and respective clinical categories. Most of the current scanning services are affordable and quality centric. However, the EHR softwares need to be tested for evaluating their overall performance and the ability to comply with HIPAA guidelines. As a result, many medical establishments, including private clinics and research centers, are now contracting EMR providers for testing phases, i.e. short intervals to test the nuances of the software and its compatibility with the users.