Electronic Health Records Use by Physicians: An Overview

Abstract

Electronic Health Records (EHRs) have significantly transformed healthcare delivery, digitizing patient information, enhancing care coordination, and improving clinical outcomes. This article provides an overview of EHR systems, detailing their evolution, benefits, challenges, and future directions. EHRs have evolved from basic paper-based systems to comprehensive digital platforms that facilitate real-time access to patient data, enable informed decision-making and better patient care. Despite their advantages, challenges such as high implementation costs, interoperability issues, and data privacy concerns persist. The impact of EHRs on healthcare delivery is profound, leading to improved patient engagement and streamlined workflows. Future directions for EHR systems include enhanced interoperability, integration of artificial intelligence, and improved patient-centric features. The conclusion emphasizes the need for ongoing innovation and investment to maximize the potential of EHRs in healthcare.