Electronic Health Information

Different terms have been used to described systems designed to record health data electronically. The two more common terms EMR (Electronic Medical Records) and EHR (Electronic Health Records), are addressed in this module.

Although the terms EHR and EMR are often used interchangeably, there is a significant distinction between them, which is worth elaborating on. The record of individuals’ health information in an institutional setting or an organisation that delivers health care, such as clinics or hospitals, is called EMR. In comparison, EHR refers to the entire history of individuals’ interactions with the health systems regardless of the setting, services, or institution [1].

The systematised collection of patient and population electronically stored health information in a digital format. EHRs may include a range of data, including demographics, medical history, medication and allergies, immunisation status, laboratory test results, radiology images, vital signs, personal statistics like age and weight, and billing information, adapted from   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_health_record [2].

Traditionally, health data has been generated by documenting patients’ records (i.e. clinicians’ notes, lab results, prescriptions etc.) in a paper-based system. However, this system has several challenges such as limited search capacity and slow access to the required data. The data in a paper-based system is demanding to read, prevents the rapid identification of issues, and the creation of a functional knowledge base. The documented data on paper cannot be analysed efficiently to detect trends or irregularities in a timely manner. In contrast, digital recording can facilitate and accelerate the interoperability of different services within the health care sector, for instance like e-prescription or discharged processes from a hospital.

The popularity of technologies such as smartphone applications, smart watches, movement trackers, etc., has contributed to the increase in recorded digital health data. Health data can be merged with the persons digital records to provide a more comprehensive and accurate picture to healthcare practitioners. Health data are also relevant for other stakeholders to support data management and analysis. 

 

[1] Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development: OECD Health Working Paper No. 129 Empowering the health workforce to make the most of the digital revolution, 2021. https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/docserver/37ff0eaa-en.pdf expires=1659692703&id=id&accname=guest&checksum=837633414E08CB8F3481B65238280DE4

[2] Definition from eHealth Network GUIDELINE On the electronic exchange of health data under Cross-Border Directive 2011/24/EU General Guidelines Release 3 June 2022. Link: ehealth_health-data_electronic-exchange_general-guidelines_en.pdf (europa.eu)