Patient Record Keeping

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The doctor-patient relationship is built upon a foundation of trust- this has not changed and should not change despite how patient information is stored and shared. Living in a world where there is a push to be technologically savvy, the medical profession has gone to keeping all records and patient information electronically- this has not come without drawbacks for some people. Whether or not it is understandable, there is still a stigma attached to computerized record keeping: looming questions such as identity theft and who can/does access my data plague many, causing them to not only wonder how honest with their doctor should they be, but to also take security into their own hands by withholding important health information. While these concerns may be valid, there is a great benefit to on-line record keeping and many are beginning to see the light. The hurdle the health industry is facing is this: how to secure patient health information in such a way to ensure a person’s autonomy and privacy and yet, allow important research and advancements to continue.
The world is fast paced and information sharing must keep up with the demands placed upon it; having patient data stored in an on-line data base holds appeal for many within the healthcare industry. Having access to a patient data bank holding thousands of files can give researchers instant access to valuable information, which can be used to improve healthcare. Also, patients now have greater input than ever before due to computerized access and many are happy about this; however, at least 80% of Americans are concerned their information will not be used appropriately and this worry keeps many skeptical about online record keeping (Lake Research Partners, 2006). I...

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...be protected, there is opportunity for improvement (Institute of Medicine, 2009). Patients’ feelings toward concealment of their records have not gone ignored and it is important to note, that since the implementation of The Security Rule, attitudes toward the improper use of their medical records, has improved in patients: it seems that 60% of those polled, believed the current laws have made a difference (Harris Interactive, 2005). The healthcare industry cannot afford to shelter anyone from some sort of federal regulation; an overhaul on current laws to provide anyone who has or needs access to personal health records with clear boundaries that respect patient autonomy is essential. The language that presently exists needs clarification as well as simplification so that not only will privacy improve but also so that important healthcare progress will continue.

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