7 KEY BENEFITS OF ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORDS IN PHARMACY PRACTICE

Historically, pharmacists relied heavily on paper-based systems to manage patient records, prescriptions, and other vital information. 

However, as technology advances, electronic health records are quickly taking the lead in most pharmacy practices. It is time to say goodbye to the days of sorting through stacks of paper charts, attempting to read handwritten notes, and risking important information being lost in the mix.

Electronic health records have the potential to transform pharmacy practice by streamlining workflows, improving patient care, and enhancing overall efficiency. By digitizing patient health information, EHRs offer a comprehensive and up-to-date view of a patient’s medical history, medication list, allergies, and other vital data.

This blog post explores the differences between electronic health records (EHRs) and electronic medical records (EMRs), the types of data found in EHRs, and the benefits of EHRs.

By understanding the advantages of EHRs, pharmacists can embrace this technology to optimize their practice and deliver superior patient care.

What Are Electronic Health Records?

Electronic health records (EHRs) are digital versions of a patient’s medical history maintained by a provider over time.

They include key administrative clinical data relevant to that person’s care under a particular provider, including demographics, progress notes, problems, medications, vital signs, past medical history, immunizations, laboratory data, and radiology reports.   

EHRs are designed to be shared across different healthcare settings, making it easier for providers to access and update patients’ medical information.

This can improve communication between providers, reduce medical errors, and improve the quality of care.   

EHR vs. EMR

Healthcare professionals sometimes use electronic health records and electronic medical records interchangeably; however, these two have some significant differences, as shown in the table below:

Types of Data Found in EHRs

Here is a list of some of the data found in the electronic health record system:

• Demographics

• Allergy information

• Immunization records

• Vital signs

• Medical history

• Medication history

• Progress report

• Diagnosis

  
  

Benefits of Electronic Health Records in Pharmacy Practice

Here are some significant benefits of electronic health records:

• Improved Efficiency and Productivity.

  
  

Electronic health records in pharmacy practice provide quick access to patient information, improving work efficiency and productivity by saving the pharmacist time that would’ve been spent searching paper records or making calls to confirm the patient’s medical information.

EHRs can also automate tasks like prescription refills, appointment scheduling, and medication reconciliation, streamlining workflows and minimizing errors.

• Improved Quality of Care.

  
  

Electronic health records contain updated and accurate information about a person’s medication records and can be shared in real time between different healthcare professionals. 

This ensures proper medication reconciliation and that the pharmacist can see details of a patient’s medication regimen to make informed decisions.

This ultimately enhances the patient’s quality of care and increases health outcomes.

• Comprehensive Patient Information.

EHRs allow pharmacists to see a comprehensive overview of a patient’s medication plan and progress, which is impossible with traditional paper charts. The information seen by the pharmacist includes vital signs, lab results, allergies, prescriptions, and progress reports.

This wealth of information allows the pharmacist to make informed decisions and offer personalized counseling to the patient.

For example, a pharmacist can check a patient’s EHR and identify medications that are not effective in treating the patient’s condition based on duration of use and lack of improvement. With this information, the pharmacist can employ pharmacogenomics or medication compounding to optimize the patient’s medication regimen.

• Enhanced Population Health Management.

EHRs enable pharmacists to participate in population health management initiatives. 

Patient information in their electronic health records can be used as part of a data survey to address certain population health issues. Pharmacists can contribute by helping to analyze this information and detecting patterns and trends. 

The results of the analysis can then be used to develop targeted interventions, such as medication adherence programs or disease management initiatives. EHRs also facilitate tracking public health metrics, allowing pharmacists to contribute to community health improvement efforts.

• Increased Research Data.

  
  

Similar to enhanced population health management, EHRs are huge data sources that can be used for specific research in the healthcare system. 

An example is research on the effectiveness of a drug on specific age groups or improvement patterns in people with certain medical conditions. 

Large amounts of patient information, including demographics, medical history, medication usage, and treatment outcomes, can be extracted from their EHRs. However, it is important to note that patient information is collected after consent and, sometimes, ethical approval. 

The data collected can be used to develop new medications, treatment protocols, and clinical guidelines.

• Improved Patient Engagement. 

EHRs can enhance patient engagement by giving patients access to their health information. Patient portals allow patients to view their medical records, medication lists, and appointment schedules online. 

This empowers patients to take an active role in their healthcare, ask questions, and make informed decisions. 

EHRs can also facilitate communication between patients and healthcare providers through secure messaging, reducing the need for in-person appointments and improving access to care.

• Enhanced Data Accessibility.

EHRs improve data accessibility for pharmacists by providing a centralized repository of patient information. Pharmacists can quickly access patient records, medication histories, and allergy information, enabling them to make informed decisions about medication therapy. 

This streamlined access to data reduces the risk of medication errors, improves patient safety, and enhances the overall efficiency of pharmacy practice.

Conclusion

Electronic health records (EHRs) offer many benefits for pharmacy practice. By streamlining workflows, improving communication, and enhancing patient safety, EHRs empower pharmacists to deliver optimal care.

While the initial investment and learning curve associated with EHR implementation may seem daunting, the long-term advantages far outweigh the short-term challenges. By embracing this technology, pharmacies can position themselves for success in an increasingly complex healthcare landscape.

As EHRs evolve, pharmacists must stay informed about the latest advancements and best practices. By leveraging EHRs’ full potential, pharmacists can play a pivotal role in improving patient outcomes and advancing the field of pharmacy.

Remember, the future of pharmacy is digital. As a pharmacist, embracing EHRs is not just adopting a new technology; you’re investing in the future of your practice and the well-being of your patients.

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