Electronic medical records (EMR) were supposed to rewire the medical grid. It would increase efficiency, reduce redundancy, improve quality and reduce costs. On these measures I offer a grade of 0 for 4. Ask any practicing doctor how EMR has impacted on his practice and be prepared for some remarks that differ from the government’s Kool Aid talking points. EMR, thus far, hasn’t been ball bearings for the system. More often, it gums up the works. The EMR Maze - Enjoy! The government spent billions of dollars with cash payments to induce hospitals and doctors like me to jump on board the EMR express. The Rand Corporation helped to fuel this euphoria in 2005 when it predicted exaggerated benefits of EMR. By the way, this study was financed in part by EMR companies whom, I politely suggest, had a vested interest in the study’s conclusion. Rand denies that they were unduly influenced by their backers, and I don’t claim that they caved on their principles. Nevertheles
MD Whistleblower presents vignettes and commentaries on the medical profession. We peek 'behind the medical curtain' and deliver candor and controversy in every post.