Electronic Health Records and the Impact on Patient Care.

Background: Electronic health records have been encouraged throughout the United
States in every health profession. Electronic health records and meaningful use are
intended to improve patient care not only from one office visit, but to assess progression
over time. Providing better communication between health care professionals regarding a
mutual patient is a lso a goal with the implementation of electronic health record systems
and meaningful use. However, the ultimate goal according to Centers for Medicare and
Medicaid Services (CMS) is to deliver better quality care at less cost. Some studies have
been conducted regarding improved patient care with paper records being replaced by
electronic health records, however, the studies show mixed results. For this study,
individual practicing optometrists have been surveyed to inquire about their experience
with electronic health records and to determine if their patient care has improved.
Methods: A ten-question survey was sent to approximately I 00 licensed and practicing
optometrists in the state of Michigan. Each question was analyzed for significance of
improvement of patient care. Results: Analysis of the survey will show improvement, no
improvement, or decreased improvement of overall patient care and efficiency.
Conclusions: Electronic health records have improved patient care, but not efficiency.