The case for electronic medical records—why the time to act is now

Research consistently suggests that electronic medical records (EMRs) provide many clinical and economic benefits associated with their adoption. Improved coordination of patient care, reduced medication errors, and improved preventive screening rates are just a few of the clinical benefits. The federal government has placed considerable emphasis on interoperability in the hopes that providers at different facilities will be able to exchange health data to maximize the quality and speed of care. The administrative benefits of EMRs include reduced transcription costs, more accurate coding, and increased efficiency of claims submission. Because of their potential, the federal government has progressively increased its efforts to facilitate the widespread adoption of interoperable EMR systems. This article discusses the government's health information technology incentive programs for Medicare and Medicaid providers, and reviews the overall “meaningful use” edibility criteria. Electronic prescribing bonuses are also discussed. This article hopes to demonstrate that because EMRs are likely to become mandatory in the near future, it is important for physicians to consider EMR implementation now while they can receive the maximum amount of reimbursement for their investments under the current incentives.

Keywords: Electronic medical records, EMR, Health information technology, Federal incentives, Implementation, Physician, Stimulus, E-prescribing, Patient safety, Health care costs reduction, ARRA, Stimulus