A common criticism of EMR (electronic medical records) use in medical practices is that it causes doctors to become less engaged and impersonal.  This causes frustration for all parties – patients and physicians – because doctors didn’t sign up for computer duty and patients expect a doctor’s full attention during visits.

For example, an EMR allows a physician to track data over time, easily identify which patients are due for preventive screenings and vaccines, and monitor and improve the overall quality of care within the practice. Doctors use specialized software, enabling a patient’s complete history to be available immediately.

EMR Software:

EMR software has made it easier to store large amounts of PHI. When it is stored and transmitted electronically, it is referred to as ePHI. It has also changed the way that doctors are able to access ePHI. EMR software allows doctors to search by specified criteria and cross reference other doctors’ notes from one place.

Software Advice, a website that reviews medical software, recently did a survey on how to improve doctor-patient interactions in the EMR era.  They listed the top seven tips received on maintaining quality relationships:

1. Position your computer between you and the patient:No brainer here.  Face the patient during interactions.  Take the time to plan where your equipment will go so that this is possible.
2. Smartphone and Tablet Apps: EMR software has other implications. Many doctors are now reporting accessing ePHI through their smart phones and tablets. A new market has emerged for apps related to management of EMR. Recent software developments have made it possible to create a doctor-patient portal in which the doctors and patient can engage in a virtual dialogue and share information without needing to be face to face. This provides care and attention in addition to the scheduled appointments.
3. Invest in mobility:Whether it’s a small rolling desk, small tablets or other lightweight tools, choose equipment that helps you move around.  A laptop may cost an extra buck but can be worth the investment.
4. Transitioning to Virtual Platforms:  Some may argue that this could lead to a dependence on technology   and a reduction in actual face-to-face time between the doctor and the patient. While it is always important for patients to maintain regularly scheduled appointments with doctors, these developments in EMR software         and applications allow doctors to provide care and effort without the constraint of physically being with the     patient.
5. Ignore the computer when you first enter the room:Chat with your patient for a few minutes before you start recording information in the digital record.
6. Ask about previous complaints:If the patient information is pre-loaded, look over it before entering the room.  If they have open complaints, ask them about the issues to close them out in the EMR.  This reaffirms to the patient that you care.