Electronic Medical Records
Through computer technology the Health Care Industry has embraced the process of digital medical records. Digital medical records are seen as a step in achieving a more efficient and integrated health care service. Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) or Electronic Health Records (EHRs) are the common names used for digital medical records. The EMR systems are to keep track of an individual’s complete health and medical history in a computerized electronic format (Torrey, 2011, p. 1). EMR systems are used throughout the civilian and military health care systems. The system is producing positive and negative effects.
Dr. Larry Weed introduced the Electronic Medical Records in the late 1960s. Dr. Weed had a passion for the concept of Problem Orient Medical Record. He wanted to develop a record that would allow a third party to independently verify the diagnosis in the record. In the late 1990s the significant development of EMR systems started (“History of The Electronic Medical System,” 2002). Nearly 19 billion dollars in the 2009 Federal Stimulus Package was allocated to jump start the computerization of medical records in doctor’s office (Carter, 2011, p. 387).
The EMR systems are to improve patient care. Communication has improved within the military health care system in a positive way. The Armed Forces Health Longitudinal Technology Application (AHLTA) is the EMR system used throughout military medical treatment facilities. AHLTA has increased the efficiency and accuracy of patient care documentation. The system is also used in deployed location. From the large hospitals to the small Medical Aid Stations, AHLTA is available for military medical personnel. This ensures medical treatment provided in theater follows the military member back to his or her permanent duty station. This advantage was a plus for the military Warrior Transition Program. Another positive advantage is AHLTA is utilized within Navy, Army, and Air Force medical...