What is one major benefit of EHR over paper records?

One major benefit of electronic health records (EHR) over traditional paper records is the enhanced accessibility to patient information for authorized users. EHR systems allow healthcare professionals to quickly retrieve and share patient data across different departments and facilities. This means that while a patient is being treated in one place, their complete medical history, medications, allergies, and previous treatments can be accessed in real time by any authorized medical staff, ensuring coordinated and efficient care.

This accessibility is especially crucial in emergency situations where time is of the essence, as it can lead to faster diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, because EHRs can be accessed remotely, healthcare providers can consult patient records from various locations, facilitating better collaboration among specialists and nurses who may not be in the same physical location. Overall, enhanced accessibility significantly improves the quality of care patients receive and streamlines the workflow for healthcare professionals.