Related Experiment Videos
The mini electronic medical record: a low-cost, low-risk partial solution.
M L Chambliss1, T Rasco, R D Clark
1Family Medicine Residency Program, Moses Cone Health System, Greensboro Area Health Education Center, 1125 N. Church St, Greensboro, NC 27401-1007, USA. Lee.Chambliss@mosescone.com.
The Journal of Family Practice
|December 18, 2001
Summary
A miniature electronic medical record (EMR) system, developed using Microsoft Access, offers a cost-effective and adaptable solution for clinics. This mini EMR integrates essential patient data and reminders with minimal disruption, serving as a practical interim step toward full EMR adoption.
Area of Science:
- Health Informatics
- Clinical Information Systems
- Medical Practice Management
Background:
- Full commercial Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) present significant challenges, including high costs, operational disruption, and inadequate vendor support.
- The need for accessible and manageable electronic health record solutions in clinical settings is growing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and implement a cost-effective, adaptable, and user-friendly partial Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system, termed a 'mini EMR'.
- To assess the feasibility and impact of a mini EMR as a transitional tool towards full EMR adoption.
Main Methods:
- A partial EMR system (mini EMR) was created using Microsoft Access 97.
- The mini EMR functions as an electronic front sheet, recording International Classification of Diseases--9th revision (ICD-9) codes, chronic medications, allergies, and preventive procedure reminders.
- Implementation focused on minimal disruption to existing clinical workflows.
Main Results:
- The developed mini EMR proved to be inexpensive, adaptable, and easy to maintain.
- The system was well-accepted by clinical staff and caused minimal interruption to clinic activities.
- It effectively captured key patient data and provided essential procedural reminders.
Conclusions:
- A mini EMR offers a practical and beneficial solution for practices hesitant or unable to adopt full commercial EMR systems immediately.
- This approach can serve as an effective bridge, facilitating a smoother transition to more comprehensive EMRs as the market matures.
- The mini EMR demonstrates the value of incremental adoption of electronic health record functionalities.