One aspect I find truly amusing is that most docs react to it as a 'demotion'! They have to actually RECORD info themselves and not mumble dictation or scribble crib notes to have an actual 'secretary' write it down. This way the 'garbage in' is all their responsibility! That's an aspect I like, makes docs think twice before committing opinions to 'the system'. On the other hand, computer systems are vulnerable - just ask the security systems of this country...either defensive or financial. All too often things are 'viewed' by others who either have a purient curiousity or some other alternative agenda...,such as insurance companies and all.
All in all? How the info is gathered, classified then summarized could be useful for emergency situations. However the privacy and access controls aren't particularly clearly stated. Further, unlike credit reports? The actual patient doesn't seem to be 'included' to ascertain the validity of any information in that 'system' or 'systems'. Thus, when errors occur-or mis-statements? IT's Deep HECK to pay by the patient!
Somehow, to me, at least? it seems that this has been developed and discussed ad-nauseum by medical, hospital and insurance professionals, BUT little consideration about, for or BY the patients..other than 'privacy aspects'.
I mean, after all, shouldn't WE be included in this mess in other ways?
For example... why not a feature that triggers notification either by e-mail or by letter[snail mail] that 'someone' has 'viewed' my 'history. Ideally, a method of e-notification followed by written one. That way, should someone 'unauthorized' view your records, it could be cut off.
I am also taking into consideration that there are still a number of people out there who do not have computers, nor know really-how to use them.
As things are proposed and implemented now? WE have little to no access nor control! That all worries me!
Happy new year to one and all! May we all have a much better year to come!
's a plenty! -j