Study: We can still sell patients on EMRs

Not surprisingly, given how threatening the idea of health process changes can be, the average patient seems to have concerns about EMR technology--in particular wondering whether their information will be secure. However, most haven't formed hard and fast opinions yet, so there's still time for the medical profession, government and public health organizations to allay their fears in advance, according to research conducted by Harris Interactive.

Right now, only 29 percent of the public claims to know anything about EMRs, Harris found. But even the 62 percent who say they know nothing seem to appreciate potential EMR benefits, such as reducing medical errors, cutting healthcare costs and slashing unnecessary tests and procedures. Still, 62 percent also fear that introducing EMRs will make it "more difficult to ensure patients' privacy." Sounds like this is the time for the health IT industry--working with influencers like trusted family care doctors--to launch an educational initiative stressing these benefits, before public perceptions harden!

Learn more about the Harris study:
- read this Harris press release

Related Articles:
Study: EHR adoption held back by multiple issues. Article
Privacy concerns slow EMR push. Article

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