The Downfall Of EMRs: Capturing Too Much Data
We have a new EMR system. I like it because I type well. I’m facile at using a keyboard and touch-screen. Not everyone in my group is so blessed, and we’ve had some difficulties using the voice-transcription software. Nevertheless, my gut tells me that in a month or two more, we’ll be getting along with our new system swimmingly. It’s the sort of thing I have wanted for a while, since I truly hate to dictate; and especially hated dictating the information the nurses had already entered into the computer!
However, I have an issue. Not so much with our EMR, but with all EMRs. I have an issue with the deeply-held delusion that computerization will automatically improve charting and patient care.
Some time ago, the inimitable, world famous blogger Dr. Wes (who can be found at http://drwes.blogspot.com/ ) told me that his facility’s conversion to EMR caused him to spend far more time at the computer than with the patient. And true to his great wisdom and insight, that’s where I find myself. It isn’t the location of the computers. We have portable ‘tough-books’ that can go to the bedside. Read more »
*This blog post was originally published at edwinleap.com*
