In a managed care setting, confidential patient information is frequently linked through databases that allow participating providers to access all the clinical data about a patient who may have received treatment at a variety of points of service within an integrated delivery system. In this environment, paper record systems that were provided based are being replaced with electronic medical records.
Computerization of a provider's records can enhance quality of care by permitting quick capture of information in a patient's record and by improving access to a patient's records by the many health professionals who may be involved in his care. In addition, quality improvement and quality assurance programs can be strengthened with the help of automated record systems. Automated record systems create the possibility of linking the patient record to expert diagnostic systems and other electronic decision support tools to further enhance the quality of patient care. A fully integrated computer based record system can also increase efficiency by reducing the volume of paperwork required for admissions, order entry, reporting of results of radiological examinations and laboratory tests, pharmacy dispensing. This in turn diminishes the overall time spent on updating and filing the records. In addition a computerized record system can assist with patient scheduling.
Although a computer based patient record system can improve efficiency and the quality of care rendered by a provider, it may also increase a health care facility's exposure to liability under many of the legal theories or causes of action traditionally associated with health information management. It generates unique confidentiality and integrity concerns; for example, it increases the risk of improper disclosure of personal health information and computer sabotage of persons gaining unauthorized access to a computerized record system.
Introduction Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the area of computer science focusing on creating machines that can engage on behaviors that humans consider intelligent. The ability to create intelligent machines has intrigued humans since ancient times and today with the advent of the computer and ...
