Electronic health records (EHRs) and other technological developments in healthcare, have enhanced patient care, and positively impacted medical processes. However despite the benefits, some physicians have complained that these new systems have increased their workload. But will technology really increase your workload.
Will Technology Increase Your Workload?
The introduction of technology in healthcare though beneficial, has brought with it new responsibilities for doctors.
Doctors now have to meet federal regulations relating to the ‘meaningful use’ of EHRs. This is a time-intensive exercise that requires tedious administrative work. In fact, some physicians are reporting that they are experiencing burnout because of the increased workload, and this has the potential to adversely impact healthcare delivery in the long term.
The truth is, if EHR is not properly implemented, doctors can end up paying more attention to the computer screen, thereby decreasing physician-patient interaction. When EHRs are not optimized, doctors aren’t able to enter information quickly, so they spend more time inputting data, and this takes away from time with patients. So technology can increase your workload, but it doesn’t have to.
In order to avoid the issue of increased workload, healthcare facilities need to make the integration of EHR a seamless process, by ensuring that the implementation process is guided by a quality expert (learn more).
The role of the quality expert is to make certain that the technology being earmarked matches the needs of the department. The technology should be relevant, easy-to-use, and improve workflows and efficiency.
In addition, healthcare facilities should seek to engage physicians and nurses in the decision making process, and provide the necessary training.
Are you interested in IT solutions for your healthcare facility? Contact Onyx Healthcare USA Inc, Orange, CA for more information. Onyx healthcare is a leading developer and manufacturing of IT solutions for healthcare.
You can reach them at www.onyxhealthcareusa.com, or by calling 714-792-0774.