People with disabilities often work with a variety of medical and community providers. In the best-case scenario, these providers work together as a team - with each member building on the expertise of the others to create a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts. In the worst-case scenario, it can feel like each provider operates in their own private bubble, and no two providers know what the other is saying or doing. Electronic health records (EHRs) can help bridge the divide between providers so they can provide the best care possible.
An EHR is a digital version of a patient’s paper chart. EHRs allow authorized users to securely access real-time information, including a patient’s medical history, diagnoses, medications, treatment plans, immunization dates, allergies, radiology images, and laboratory and test results.
EHRs make it easier for providers to share information and benefit from the observations of their colleagues. EHRs also have the potential to help connect medical providers such as doctors and community-based organizations providing services such as personal care aides or home-delivered meals. ACL is working to promote this kind of information sharing in a way that protects patient privacy.
EHRs also can make it easier for patients to access their health records. With more information, patients can take a more active role in decisions about their health.