Patient Health Data and Electronic Records The electronic recording of an individuals health information is a high-profile and rapidly evolving area of health informatics thatgiven current trends in health reform and ongoing changes in the delivery of health care in the United Statesholds tremendous promise for improving the quality, safety, and efficacy of patient care. However, despite its numerous potential benefits for both health care providers and patients, the trend toward the paperless recording of patient health data is not without its drawbacks. What is an advantage of recording patient information electronically? What is a benefit of implementing these electronic records? Explain your reasoning and be sure to consider both patient and provider perspectives as you craft your response. What is an issue associated with recording patient information electronically? What is a challenge to implementing these electronic records? Explain your reasoning and be sure to consider both patient and provider perspectives as you craft your response. Should all patient health information be recorded electronically? If so, explain why. If not, explain what the exceptions would be and why. Reading Materials

Course Text:Handbook of Informatics for Nurses and Healthcare Professionals

Chapter 14, "The Electronic Health Record"

Article: Handler, T., Holtmeier, R., Metzger, J., Overhage, M., Taylor, S., & Underwood, C. (2003). EHR definition, attributes and essential requirements version 1.0. Retrieved from HIMSS website: http://himss.files.cms-plus.com/HIMSSorg/Content/files/EHRAttributes.pdf Article: McKinney, M. (2009). HIPAA and HITECH: Tighter control of patient data. Hospitals and Health Networks, 83(6), 5052. Retrieved from http://ezp.waldenulibrary.org/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=bth&AN=41785931&site=ehost-live&scope=site