Working group 6: The role of technology to enhance clinical and educational efficiency

Chiropractic physicians: an analysis of select issues for the use of electronic medical records and the patient-practitioner relationship within the society-culture-personality model

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this article is to explain how new systems of medical technology, specifically electronic medical records, are playing an increasingly crucial role in the modern health care system. By examining these new developments associated with electronic medical technology and the society-culture-personality model, these aforementioned theoretical frameworks might assist chiropractors in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of their patients.

DISCUSSION

The society-culture-personality model can be used as an organizational instrument for assisting chiropractors in developing a better understanding and appreciation of the interrelationships between electronic medical records technology and the society-culture-personality model. The socially meaningful interaction established through electronic medical records technology may enhance communication between the health care professionals and the patient and thereby could improve the quality of care.

CONCLUSION

It is essential that future and current chiropractic physicians be aware of the ramifications and changes brought about by electronic medical records technology so that they can integrate, synthesize, and actualize the results to deliver care that involves the ingredients of quality, affordability, availability, accessibility, and continuity for their patients. If these outcomes are examined consistently and well, future chiropractic physicians will be able to transfer the traditions of excellence, dedication, and creativity of the health care profession.

Computer applications in clinical practice

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The prospects of improved practice efficiencies and better treatment outcomes have recently focused political attention at high levels upon the use of information technology (IT) in routine clinical care in the US, UK and elsewhere. Providers who treat musculoskeletal diseases need to become familiar with emerging governmental policies, IT industry trends, data standards and communication protocols to equip themselves with a basis on which to evaluate and influence the development of these technologies, which in turn will influence the shape of clinical practice.

RECENT FINDINGS

The articles cited are categorized into the topics of government policy regarding electronic medical records (EMRs); data definitions and databases; computers in outpatient clinical encounters; EMRs; patient self-entry of historical data; computer physician order entry; personal digital assistants; and e-mail, the Internet, and the patient/physician encounter.

SUMMARY

Government agencies in the US, UK, and elsewhere are at various stages in the implementation of national health information infrastructures. US officials are playing a greater role in prompting physicians to use EMRs and in setting standards for EMR systems. A study by the American College of Rheumatology observed, 'Increasing requirements for provider compliance with quality and outcomes reporting, HIPAA regulations, medical error reduction, including Medicare e-prescribing mandates, and downward pressure on practice revenues will ultimately drive the adoption of EMRs in office practice.' Nonuse will equate to a non-viable practice. Rheumatologists who would control their own destinies must acquaint themselves with, adopt, and exert influence on the development of these technologies with all deliberate speed.