How do EHRs support chronic disease management?

Electronic Health Records (EHRs) play a pivotal role in chronic disease management by enabling the tracking of patient progress and adherence to treatment plans. This capability allows healthcare providers to monitor a patient's condition over time, making it easier to adjust treatment plans based on real-time data. EHRs provide a comprehensive view of the patient’s medical history, medications, and lab results, which are essential in managing chronic conditions effectively.

The tracking features of EHRs empower both healthcare providers and patients to set and review health goals, ensuring that the treatment is not only appropriate but also followed correctly by patients. This includes reminders for medication refills and appointments, as well as alerts for necessary screenings or tests based on clinical guidelines. Overall, this consistent monitoring significantly enhances the quality of care and can lead to improved health outcomes for individuals with chronic illnesses.