Year: 2018
Type: article
Abstract: This chapter explores the benefits and limitations of personal health records (PHRs) as a tool to promote transparency in health care. A PHR can be defined as “an electronic application through which individuals can access, manage and share their health information . . . in a private, secure, and confidential environment.” PHRs can enhance efficiency, communication, data accuracy, and health outcomes. At the same time, they can disrupt the physician-patient relationship and raise liability concerns. For example, PHRs may induce patients and physicians to rely on electronic communication when office visits would be far more appropriate. The chapter analyzes the impact of PHRs on health care and develops recommendations designed to maximize their benefits and minimize their risks. The author provides guidance as to how health care providers can implement thoughtful electronic messaging and data release policies, enhance the accuracy of medical records, and offer educational programs to help patients navigate the technology.
Author: Sharona Hoffman
Institution: Case Western Reserve University
Language: English
Subfield: Health Information Management
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2800125767