Your Health Record is Going Electronic
An electronic health record (EHR) is being built for patients of Humphrey Cancer Center. The change from paper charts to computerized records is happening in stages throughout 2007 and 2008.
With an EHR, your care providers will have faster access to information, since records will be stored electronically in a secure, centralized location. The electronic health record will improve patient safety and enhance service.
The following has more details about the change.
What will I notice first?
Scheduling and registration
The first change you will notice starts Aug. 27, 2007, when we automate appointment scheduling, registration ("checking in") and billing. Scheduling appointments will be easier and more efficient for both patients and our schedulers.
Billing
We are changing our automated billing system in August 2007. One advantage of the new system is that billing and insurance information will be part of the centralized patient record. All patient information will be combined in one secure file, including notes from your doctor after your clinic visits and results of lab tests.
You may be mailed two billing statements
As we begin billing with our new system, you will receive two billing statements if your account has a balance at the time of the transition. These are not duplicate bills. If you receive two statements, you are responsible for paying both amounts. You will receive a second statement until the amount is paid.
Other changes coming later
As the electronic health record continues to be built, other changes will take place. Many of them are "behind the scenes," but others will be noticeable during your clinic visits.
Medical information access
For example, in second quarter 2008, you will notice nurses and doctors entering information into a computer during your clinic visit. They will no longer write notes on paper charts. Because of this change, your care provider will have improved file access to your health care information.
Prescription convenience
If your doctor issues a prescription, in many cases, it can be automatically sent to your preferred pharmacy while you are still at the clinic. That often means your medicine will be ready when you stop at the pharmacy on your way home.
Prescription safety
The software has built-in features that automatically check the prescription that your doctor enters. It sends a "red flag" to your doctor if the dosage appears incorrect or if you are known to be allergic to that medicine.
Data security
Please know that our EHR is being built using secure systems and protocols. Only authorized staff will be able to access your record. And all information in the electronic record is "backed up," so that it won't be lost.