Question

Despite the many benefits of the electronic health record (EHR), there are disadvantages to using it. Identify at least two disadvantages of implementing the EHR along with a solution for each one. How do HIPAA and HITECH affect the implementation of a system like the EHR? Provide supporting evidence for your conclusions and recommendations

Answer 1

The two disadvantages of implementing the electronic health record (EHR) along with a solution for each one are :-

a) Privacy and security concerns : There is a risk of hacking of the EHR systems by the hackers present all over the world. Therefore, there is a possibility that sensitive patient data could fall into the wrong hands.

Solution : regular scanning of the computer systems should be done for detecting any viruses and malware. Sensitive passwords should be regularly changed.

b) Occasional chance of inaccurate information : There could be delay in updating the data. There could be errors while uploading the data by the data operators. This could affect the treatment protocols of the patients.

Solution : EHR should be immediately and regularly updated after each patient visit because of its instantaneous nature. Uploading of data should be carefully done.

HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and HITECH (Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health) act plays a significant role in the implementation of EHR. Both of them encourages the adoption and implementation of EHR. Title II of HIPAA includes the administrative provisions, protection of patient's privacy, and security controls for EHR. HITECH creates the financial incentives for making the transition from paper to digital records. HIPAA privacy rules enables the patients to obtain copies of their personal health information. The HITECH act gave the option of obtaining the copies of health and medical records in the electronic form. HITECH also prohibited the sale of patient health and medical records except in limited circumstances. There are provisions of penalties for HIPAA violations. This is how, HIPAA and HITECH affect the implementation of a system like the EHR.