Module 7: Optimizing Health Systems in LTC
180 7.5.2 Electronic Health Records
Benefits of an Electronic Health Record (EHR) in LTC[1]:
- Reduced paperwork
- Increased accuracy in clinical documentation
- Reduced unnecessary tests and procedures
Risks of an EHR in LTC:
- Access
- Disclosure
- Theft
- Disposal
Risk management recommendations[2]:
- Update policies and procedures regarding the collection, use, disclosure, safe storage, and disposal of PHI
- Ongoing training about privacy issues, the role of the organization’s Privacy Officer, and the pertinent legislation
- All persons who have access to PHI should enter into a confidentiality agreement
- Ensuring acceptable technical protections on all devices
- Security measures to avert theft or loss
- Limiting access to PHI, unless needed for patient care or for authorized reasons.
- Monitoring of access on an ongoing basis
- Permanently destroying PHI, in a secure and safe manner, once it is no longer required
