Pathologists' place in the electronic health record landscape

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Laboratory Medicine
• Digital Health

Background:

• Electronic Health Records (EHRs) are rapidly expanding in healthcare, driven by federal initiatives.
• EHRs significantly change how clinicians interact with laboratory data, including test ordering and result review.
• Pathologists and laboratories face unique challenges and opportunities with increasing EHR adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a framework for pathologists to adapt to the growing use of EHRs.
• To raise awareness of EHR-related issues impacting pathology practices and laboratories.
• To explore emerging professional roles for pathologists in managing patient laboratory data within EHR systems.

Main Methods:

• This article is the first in a 5-part series.
• The series will describe the EHR adoption environment.
• It will identify key issues and explore new roles for pathologists.

Main Results:

• EHRs are transforming medical practice and laboratory information management.
• Pathologists need to adapt to new workflows for test ordering and result review.
• New professional opportunities exist for pathologists as stewards of laboratory data in EHRs.

Conclusions:

• Pathologists must proactively engage with EHR systems to maintain and enhance their roles.
• Understanding the EHR landscape is crucial for laboratory success in the digital age.
• This series aims to empower pathologists to thrive in the era of EHRs.