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Essay / What is the electronic health record? - 1360
EHRs are “real-time, patient-centered” records that make health information available quickly and gather all patient health information in one place, such as medical history, medications, diagnostics, lab test results, immunization records, allergies and even medical images, and many more. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) is continually increasing. The ability to electronically collect secure patient data and provide the information to providers upon request is one of the capabilities of the EHR. The system can also bring together information from multiple healthcare organizations and all of the patient's past and current clinical services that helps healthcare professionals provide quality services. In this context, the EHR allows healthcare providers to enter orders directly into a computerized Provider Order Entry (CPOE) system, provides decision-making tools such as alerts, reminders, and provides access to new research findings and evidence-based guidelines (Wager, Lee, & Glaser, 2013, pp. 134-37). The United States is investing heavily to boost the adoption and use of interoperable electronic health records (EHRs).)