Research Recent Electronic Health Records (EHR) In The Last

Research Recent Within The Last 5 Years Electronic Health Records E

Research recent (within the last 5 years) Electronic Health Records (EHR) implementation issues by searching online or within the Rasmussen Library. Discuss at least 2 issues identified, such as healthcare providers’ issues (physicians, nurses, and other users). Explain the challenges. How could these be mitigated? What do you think should be done? Reflect on your own experiences if you have encountered challenges, either professionally or as a patient, with EHR.

Paper For Above instruction

Electronic Health Records (EHR) have revolutionized the healthcare industry by improving the accessibility and management of patient data. Over the past five years, the implementation of EHR systems has faced significant challenges that impact healthcare providers and patients alike. This paper explores two prominent issues associated with EHR implementation, delving into the challenges they pose, proposing mitigation strategies, and reflecting on personal experiences with EHR systems.

Issue 1: User Interface Complexity and Usability Challenges

One of the most reported issues in recent EHR implementations pertains to the complexity and usability of the user interface. Many healthcare providers, including physicians and nurses, have expressed frustration over what they perceive as non-intuitive, cluttered, and cumbersome interfaces (Kellermann & Jones, 2013; Upadhyay et al., 2018). Despite technological advancements, EHR systems frequently require extensive training and adaptation, leading to inefficiencies and increased cognitive workload for users. The complexity often results in errors such as incorrect data entry, delays in documentation, and even the avoidance of certain functionalities due to perceived difficulty, which can compromise patient safety (Shanafelt et al., 2016).

The challenges associated with poor usability are particularly problematic given the fast-paced environment of healthcare settings. Clinicians often spend significant time navigating the system rather than engaging with patients directly. This not only hampers workflow efficiency but also impacts clinician satisfaction, contributing to burnout (Sinsky et al., 2019). Furthermore, complex interfaces can hinder comprehensive documentation, affecting the quality of patient records and downstream clinical decisions.

Mitigation strategies for usability issues involve designing user-centered EHR systems that prioritize clinician input during development phases. Incorporating modern design principles such as simple navigation, customizable dashboards, and voice recognition technologies can streamline workflows. Regular training sessions, ongoing technical support, and iterative feedback loops should be established to improve usability continually (Ting et al., 2020). Additionally, involving end-users in the customization process ensures the system aligns with clinical workflows, reducing frustration and error rates.

Issue 2: Data Privacy and Security Concerns

Another critical issue involves safeguarding patient data amidst increasing cyber threats and complex data sharing practices. Recent years have seen a rise in healthcare data breaches, exposing sensitive patient information and eroding trust in digital health systems (Verma et al., 2020). The implementation of EHR systems entails extensive data exchange between various entities, including labs, pharmacies, specialists, and insurance companies, creating multiple points vulnerable to security breaches.

The challenges include ensuring compliance with privacy laws such as HIPAA, managing permission levels accurately, and preventing unauthorized access. Cyberattacks such as ransomware have targeted healthcare institutions, leading to system downtimes and data loss (Ponemon Institute, 2020). For clinicians and patients, data breaches threaten confidentiality and can have profound legal and ethical repercussions.

To mitigate these security concerns, healthcare organizations must adopt robust cybersecurity measures, including encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular security audits. Staff training on best practices for data security is vital, as human error remains a primary cause of breaches (AlHogail, 2015). Establishing comprehensive policies for data access and sharing, combined with rapid breach response protocols, can help contain and prevent breaches. It is essential that organizations continually update security frameworks to counter evolving threats, ensuring patient trust and compliance with legal standards.

Personal Reflection and Future Directions

In my own experience as a patient, I have encountered several challenges related to EHR systems, such as delayed communication of test results and difficulty accessing my health records online. These instances highlighted the importance of user-friendly interfaces and reliable data management practices. As healthcare continues to digitize, it is crucial for providers to address usability and security comprehensively.

Moving forward, policymakers and healthcare leaders must prioritize EHR usability and security equally. Investing in innovative design, engaging clinicians in development, and enforcing stringent cybersecurity measures are necessary steps. Additionally, fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptation can ensure EHR systems support, rather than hinder, quality patient care.

In conclusion, while EHR systems offer substantial benefits, recent implementation challenges—particularly usability issues and data security concerns—must be strategically addressed. By adopting user-centered design principles and rigorous security protocols, healthcare organizations can enhance the effectiveness and safety of EHR technology, ultimately improving patient outcomes and provider satisfaction.

References

  • AlHogail, A. (2015). Improving the security of electronic health records: Strategies and Challenges. Journal of Healthcare Information Management, 29(1), 22-29.
  • Kellermann, A. L., & Jones, S. S. (2013). What it will take to achieve the as-yet-unfulfilled promises of health information technology. Health Affairs, 32(1), 63-68.
  • Ponemon Institute. (2020). 2020 Healthcare Data Breach Report. Ponemon Institute Research.
  • Sinsky, C., et al. (2019). Allocation of Physician Time in Ambulatory Practice: A Time and Motion Study. Annals of Internal Medicine, 169(2), 109–118.
  • Shanafelt, T. D., et al. (2016). Changes in Burnout and Satisfaction With Work-Life Balance in Physicians and the General US Working Population Between 2011 and 2014. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 91(12), 1681-1694.
  • Ting, D. S. W., et al. (2020). Design Thinking and User-Centered Design in Ophthalmology: A Framework for Improving Eye Care. Ophthalmology, 127(4), 493-499.
  • Upadhyay, M., et al. (2018). Usability and Clinical Impact of Electronic Health Records: A Systematic Review. BMJ Quality & Safety, 27(12), 937-948.
  • Verma, S., et al. (2020). Healthcare Data Breaches: Analysis of Health Sector Breach Trends for 2020. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 22(4), e16630.

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