What Are Electronic Health Records?

Electronic health records (EHRs) are secure, centralized repositories of a patient’s health information. Professionals employed in medical billing and coding positions work with EHRs on a daily basis. Keep reading to learn more about EHRs and what it’s like to work in medical billing and coding. 

What Information Is Included in EHRs? 

EHRs are patients’ digital health vaults. They typically include:  

• Basic details such as name, address, date of birth, and contact information. 

• Detailed records of patients’ diagnoses, allergies, immunizations, and surgeries. 

• A complete list of medications, including any dosages and allergies. 

• Documented plans outlining a patient’s course of treatment for various conditions. 

• Electronic copies of laboratory test results, which are readily available for review and analysis. 

• Digital storage of X-rays, MRIs, and other diagnostic images for easy access. 

Why Are Health Records Stored Electronically? 

The shift from the hard copy health record files of years past to EHRs offers many benefits: 

• Enhanced care coordination: EHRs bridge the communication gap between different healthcare providers. With instant access to a patient’s complete medical history, specialists and general practitioners can collaborate more effectively, avoiding unnecessary tests and duplications of services.  

• Streamlined workflows: EHRs eliminate the need for bulky paper charts, saving healthcare professionals time. Clinicians can document patient outcomes electronically, improving efficiency and allowing them to give more time to patient interaction and care delivery. 

• Reduced errors: Standardized data entry formats minimize the risk of errors in medication prescriptions and coding. Additionally, automated checks flag potential medication interactions, improving patient safety and reducing the likelihood of billing errors. 

• Data-driven insights: Analyzing trends in patient populations and treatment outcomes provides valuable insights. These insights are used to improve quality initiatives, optimize resource allocation, and develop preventive care strategies. 

How Do Electronic Health Records Operate? 

There are two main types of electronic health record systems: 

Cloud-based EHR Systems: These operate on a remote server network, accessible from any internet-connected device. Providers benefit from flexibility and lower upfront costs but a stable internet connection is a must-have. Advantages include: 

• Accessibility from anywhere with an internet connection 

• Lower upfront costs 

• Automatic updates and maintenance 

• Scalability 

On-premise EHR Systems: Installed on a healthcare facility’s servers, on-premise systems give you complete control and the ability to customize. However, they require significant IT investment and maintenance. They provide: 

• Complete data security and control 

• Customization options 

• Easier integration with existing hospital infrastructure 

The Surge in Demand for Medical Billing and Coding Jobs 

The explosion of EHRs has created a booming job market for individuals who can maintain them. Medical records specialist roles are set to grow 8% in the decade between 2022 and 2032, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.   

Get Medical Billing and Coding Certification From IMBC 

The IMBC Medical Bill and Coding program equips you with the skills needed to thrive in this essential field so you’re able to: 

• Master medical coding and billing practices to maintain precise patient records. 

• Provide essential support by managing and troubleshooting EHR systems. 

• Implement best practices for data security and patient privacy. 

Enroll in the IMBC Medical Billing and Coding certification course today and embark on a fulfilling career!