Comparison between paper based and electronic medical records
August 30, 2022Patient data management is one of the most critical tasks undertaken by medical institutions. For a long time, paper-based record-keeping had been the norm, but with the advent of Electronic Medical Records (EMR) or EHR, the data landscape is changing rapidly.
Whilst manual record keeping is considered the gold standard, in recent years, multiple medical institutions are increasingly shifting their focus to the electronic means of handling workflows.
Deploying an Electronic Medical Records Software has proven benefits for various hospitals and clinics, both on a small and a larger scale. The Healthcare
Depending on the various factors that concern the hospital authorities, in this article, we shall look at the difference between Paper based vs Electronic Health Records (EHR) software in depth.
Ease of Data Management
Catering to thousands of papers, files, and reports can get challenging because the physical space required to maintain manual data is much larger. They call for proper management, sorting of every document so that it can be easily accessed as and when needed. Management might need temperature-controlled rooms to ensure data integrity.
Paper-Based
Electronic Medical Records (EMR)
The digitized version of documents only needs a cloud server where the data can be stored and sorted in the required manner. The management can opt from the different types of cloud server as per the requirement.
Layout Consistency
Paper-Based Records
Having to be handled by various individuals, this form of data is highly inconsistent. At times, the handwriting is not comprehensive, or the information is formatted differently in different sections. These nuances can cause inconvenience amongst the authorities who need to access it.
Electronic Medical Records (EMR)
There are set formats of each data, which makes it easier to understand and study the information stored. The formats are filled in a standard way.
Accessibility of Data
Paper-based Records
Accessing data concurrently is not feasible in this methodology. Portability of papers and folders take time and therefore reduces efficiency.
Electronic Medical Records (EMR)
Since the data is available on the cloud, it can be accessed across the globe by the desired authorities. Considering the concept of remote consultations and working has been on the rise, EMR is the key to make it possible.
Vulnerability to Errors
Paper-based Records
Human error is inevitable, and therefore, paper-based records are prone to such mistakes. Hospital management must maintain the highest order of caution while scripting the records.
Electronic Medical Records (EMR)
Digitized data is less susceptible to errors, and reduces the risk there. With the help of proper training, the staff can get acquainted with the program and use it effectively to store critical information.
Time-Saving
Paper-based Records
Managing huge paper trails and files can be tricky. Not just that, storing information manually is a time-consuming affair. A greater share of the work hours is dedicated to the paperwork, reducing the focus on the more critical jobs.
Electronic Medical Records (EMR)
Via an EMR/EHR software, it is smooth to store data and take our reports. The digital management of workflows saves much time and optimizes work efficiency of the staff.
Scalability of Data
Paper-based Records
These records are hard to be shared and accessed using different means. While people have a comfort level with physical folders, those are scalable to an extent.
Electronic Medical Records (EMR)
As stated earlier, the data is saved in cloud-based servers and is scalable to significant limits. Cloud is an unending storage unit.
Cost Efficiency
Paper-based Records
Except for the storage bit, maintaining physical folders is cost-efficient. Since it is a familiar way of storing
Electronic Medical Records (EMR)
A cloud-based server can be expensive if the management chooses to get an in-house IT team; it will cost even more. However, maintenance is relatively lower.
Security
Paper-based Records
Data security is cardinal to medical institutions; the information is confidential and has to be protected. Physical
Electronic Medical Records (EMR)
Electronic information can only be edited/maintained/viewed by individuals who have access. It is highly protected and has little to the negligible possibility of a breach.
Maintaining Backups
Paper-based Records
Keeping a backlog of paper records is very difficult, it will double not only the work but also the space required for storage. So, there is no backlog of data stored in physical forms.
Electronic Medical Records (EMR)
Cloud-based systems are updated with new technology and keep a backlog of the entire database. Loss of data can be quickly recovered in the old format.
Organizations have a regular backup process in place to make sure the safety of their data.
Softclinic Electronic Medical Records Software
With extensive experience working in the healthcare IT industry, SoftClinic provides EMR Software that is not only easy to adopt but can be customised according to the needs. With top-notch post-development support, Softclinic has an active user base in 40+ countries.
Key Features of SoftClinic EMR
- Generate Prescriptions in less than 60 seconds.
- Easy to use patient visit details (OPD/IPD) modules.
- Detailed demographic and clinical data analysis.
- Billing and account manager for your accounting needs.
- Available in 6 specialities
Conclusion
It is ultimately the choice of management. The bottom line is one must choose the solution that sails the boat for their workplace.
While each of the given options, the traditional and the modern way of storing data, have their consequences and benefits, the management also has a third option. There are customised solutions available in the market wherein the hospitals/clinics can
Also Read: Features that Your Online Telemedicine Platform Must-Have